In recent years, college campuses across the country have seen a troubling rise in the number of students seeking treatment for serious mental health conditions. These students are not simply stressed about exams; they are battling diagnosable disorders like generalized anxiety, depression, and co-occurring substance use disorders at increasingly alarming rates.
At Hanley Center, we understand how overwhelming the college experience can be for young adults—and how difficult it is to navigate mental illness without the proper support. Our specialized, evidence-based care is designed to address the unique needs of emerging adults facing mental health and substance use challenges.
Anxiety: Beyond Typical College Stress
Research from the Center for Collegiate Mental Health has consistently shown a steady increase in the number of college students presenting with a “threat-to-self” in counseling centers nationwide. In 2019, researchers at UC Berkeley reported that the percentage of college students diagnosed with or treated for anxiety disorders had doubled since 2008, climbing from 10% to 20% in just a decade.
This is not simply a rise in typical college stress—these are clinical conditions requiring treatment. Factors contributing to this trend include:
- Mounting academic and financial pressures
- Student loan debt
- Social isolation and digital overexposure
- The pressure to meet unrealistic social expectations
- Fear of violence on campus
While stress is a standard part of student life, the intensity and persistence of anxiety disorders can interfere with a student’s ability to function, connect socially, and maintain academic progress.
The Link Between Anxiety and Substance Use
Anxiety and depression not only disrupt mental health, but they also increase the risk of substance misuse. The Berkeley study found that students with anxiety are 3.2 times more likely to abuse alcohol or drugs than their peers. Data from SAMHSA further showed that over 50% of adults ages 18–25 who used prescription stimulants reported misusing them, often in academic settings, to cope with pressure or fatigue.
This self-medication can quickly escalate into dependency or addiction, especially when underlying mental health conditions remain untreated. At Hanley Center, we address both the emotional drivers and behavioral consequences of substance use in a fully integrated model of care.
The Weight of Depression on Student Life
Depression is also on the rise among college students. In 2024, the American College Health Association reports that 23% of students reported experiencing depression and anxiety in the past year. Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and social withdrawal can make it nearly impossible for students to maintain their academic, social, and personal responsibilities.
College is often portrayed as a time of fun, freedom, and social connection. When students find themselves unable to meet these expectations, due to emotional distress, they may feel isolated, ashamed, or like they’re falling behind in ways they can’t explain.
College Counseling Centers Are Overwhelmed
While demand for mental health care has grown, many college campuses remain under-resourced and underprepared to meet students’ needs. Depending on the institution, counseling centers frequently report long wait times for appointments, often stretching from two weeks to two months. Students in crisis may be turned away, placed on waitlists, or offered only short-term support. For those far from home, with limited access to off-campus care, this gap in services can lead to increased substance use, academic decline, or self-harm.
How Hanley Center Can Help: Compassionate Care for College-Age Adults
At Hanley Center, we offer a clinically sophisticated and deeply compassionate approach to treating young adults facing anxiety, depression, and co-occurring substance use disorders. Our programs are trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, and grounded in evidence-based therapy and whole-person wellness.
We provide:
- Residential Mental Health Treatment for primary psychiatric concerns, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders
- Integrated dual diagnosis care for students experiencing both mental health and substance use challenges
- Family therapy and support help parents and caregivers understand the recovery process and how to offer healthy support
- Continuing care planning, including academic reintegration strategies
What to Do If Your College-Age Student Is Struggling
If you suspect a student in your life is battling a mental health disorder or substance use problem, early intervention is key. While many campuses offer counseling services, they may not be equipped for comprehensive care. That’s where a trusted clinical partner like Hanley Center can make all the difference.
With the proper support, students can heal, rebuild confidence, and return to school better prepared to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
Hanley Center has been helping people all over the country achieve wellness for more than 40 years. In addition to providing age- and gender-specific treatment for substance use and co-occurring disorders, Hanley offers a Patriots Initiative for first responders and veterans, a program specifically for pregnant women, and a boutique residential mental health program for adults. For information on our programs, call us today: 561-841-1033.
