Abstract
Background: College is an influential time period for young adults as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. Research looking at well-being has focused on adolescents and older adults, but not college-aged students. The purpose of this study is to identify predictors of mental well-being in undergraduate students at a midsized private university in the Northeast and at 40 institutions of higher education across the United States.
Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional web-based survey of undergraduate students was disseminated at Brandeis University and 40 higher education institutions across the United States. Data on well-being, mental health, and other aspects of college life was collected on predictors and assessors of mental well-being using the National College Health Assessment IIc. Multivariate linear regression models were used to determine significant predictors of mental well-being in both Brandeis and National college students.
Results: Sex and gender, sexual orientation, race, mental disorder diagnoses, exercising, and utilization of mental services on college campuses were primary predictors of mental well-being in undergraduate students in both survey populations. Sexual orientation and a diagnosis of depression were the strongest predictors of mental well-being in the Brandeis population, accounting for 18% of the variability. In the National population, receiving psychological or mental health services from a counselor/therapist/psychologist or a diagnosis of depression or anxiety were the three strongest predictors of mental well-being, explaining 19% of variability. Summary and Significance: This is the first known study that examines predictors of mental well-being in college students. These results demonstrate a need for improved mental health services on college campuses to address the growing “campus mental health crisis.” Future studies should examine additional aspects of overall well-being in this understudied population. Steps should also be taken to improve access to mental health services on college campuses and destigmatizing mental health in the general public.