The study, conducted by The Harris Poll among 2,050 students ages 18-24 at four-year institutions, found that 51% of U.S. college students rate their mental health as fair, poor, or terrible, signaling what researchers call a "looming mental health crisis" affecting millions of young people.
One in four students said college had a negative impact on their mental health, while more than 7.5 million young people from historically disadvantaged backgrounds in the U.S.—over one in five—struggle with their mental health.
The crisis disproportionately affects students of color, who face additional stressors including discrimination and feelings of isolation. Approximately 9% of Black and White students, 6% of Hispanic and Asian students, and 1% of Indigenous students described their campus as hostile.
"Our findings highlight the critical need to address the mental health challenges faced by students on college campuses," said Stephanie Bell-Rose, President of The Steve Fund, in the report. "It is essential that institutions provide mental health services to the specific needs of students, ensuring they have the resources necessary to thrive both academically and emotionally."
The survey revealed a strong demand for targeted mental health approaches. Eighty percent of students of color (Black, Asian, Hispanic) want mental health programs tailored to their background, while more than 3 in 4 students believe colleges must invest more in targeted mental health support.
Two in 5 students report struggling with imposter syndrome, a phenomenon particularly acute among underrepresented groups who often feel their academic success is undeserved.
