Written by SADAG Project Manager: Krystle Kemp
Tertiary education should be a time when students look forward to bright futures with the world at their feet, but the sobering reality is that many are silently battling mental health struggles that cast long shadows over their potential.
What should be years of growth and opportunity have become, for too many South African stu-dents, a period of anxiety, depression, and isolation as they navigate overwhelming pressures without adequate support.
Mental health challenges among South African tertiary students have reached alarming levels, with recent research showing that nearly half of undergraduate students at one Johannesburg University screened positive for probable depression.
Recognising the increasing pressures faced by students in higher education and the critical im-portance of proactive mental health support, Eduvos have strengthened its commitment to this vital area. As part of this ongoing dedication, Eduvos recently announced a new collaboration with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).
This partnership aims to significantly enhance the mental health support services available to students at Eduvos, providing them with greater access to resources and assistance. This initia-tive is a direct response to the challenges students face and seeks to provide them with the nec-essary tools and support systems to navigate their academic journey while prioritising their mental well-being.
Eduvos believes that by working closely with SADAG, they can create a more supportive and understanding environment for students struggling with depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.
The Impact on Students
Mental health issues significantly affect young people in tertiary institutions, impairing aca-demic performance, reducing productivity, and increasing vulnerability to substance abuse. The transition to university life presents unique challenges that can trigger or worsen mental health conditions.
According to research conducted at the University of the Witwatersrand, 48% of surveyed stu-dents screened positive for probable depression. Similarly, a national student survey revealed high prevalence rates for anxiety disorders (37.1%) and disruptive behaviour disorders (38.7%), with social anxiety, PTSD, eating disorders, and ADHD being most common.
Key Contributors to Student Mental Health Issues
Several factors contribute to the mental health challenges faced by tertiary students:
Economic pressure: Students with financial constraints are more likely to experience depres-sion than those with better economic status. Black students attending Historically White Insti-tutions face elevated risks compared to white students.
Substance use: Cannabis use was associated with a 29% higher likelihood of screening positive for depression.
Identity and inclusion: Gender non-conforming students have a 30% higher risk of mental dis-orders, while female and sexual minority students face 20% higher risks.
Academic pressure: The transition to more independent learning creates significant stress for many students.
Taking Care of Mental Health
Recognising the urgent need for mental health support, SADAG recommends several approach-es:
Seek professional help: SADAG operates over 12 dedicated Higher Learning Helplines. The Higher Health helpline (0800 36 36 36) is available to all students nationwide, operates 24/7, and is toll-free.
Join peer support groups: SADAG offers free online bi-weekly Peer Support Group meetings.
Practice self-care: Regular exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices can significantly improve mental wellbeing.
Understand warning signs: Learning to recognise symptoms of mental health conditions allows for early intervention.
Reduce substance use: Given the connection with mental health issues, minimising alcohol and drug consumption is advisable.
SADAG's Commitment to Student Mental Health
"A few years ago we identified a need for more student-related Support Groups," explains SADAG Project Manager Krystle Kemp. "Starting to study at any tertiary institution can be a massive adjustment as students enter the adult world and become more independent. This can be incredibly challenging while trying to find a balance between students' social lives, studying and, in some cases, working simultaneously."
The collaboration between the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) and Eduvos demonstrates a shared dedication to fostering environments that nurture the holistic well-being of students, enabling them to flourish in both their academic journeys and emotional lives. The initiative establishes and strengthens peer support networks and recognises the vital role that connection and shared experiences play in promoting mental wellness. One of the primary goals of SADAG and Eduvos is to reduce the stigma associated with mental health is-sues. This partnership aims to create a culture of understanding and acceptance, empowering students to seek assistance when needed. Eduvos and SADAG strive to ensure that students re-ceive the support they require to thrive throughout their academic journeys.
For more information about SADAG's student support services, visit
www.sadag.org or contact the Higher Health helpline at 0800 36 36 36.
