College Students and Anxiety Since COVID: A Generation on Edge
By Dr. Douglas Cowan, Psy.D.
Marriage and Family Therapist
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly reshaped the emotional landscape of college students. Once a time for growth, independence, and self-discovery, college life has instead become a source of anxiety and uncertainty for many young adults. From remote learning to the looming threat of climate change, students today are facing stressors that previous generations never imagined.
This article explores the unique factors driving anxiety among college students post-pandemic and outlines integrative, research-informed solutions to help them thrive.
Anxiety in College Students: The New Normal
According to national surveys, over 60% of college students report experiencing overwhelming anxiety in the past year, with numbers significantly higher for women and LGBTQ+ students. More than 25% of students considered dropping out due to mental health struggles. These aren’t isolated cases—they’re part of a growing epidemic.
What’s Causing the Surge in Anxiety?
- – Loss of campus life and community due to COVID lockdowns
- – Academic and financial pressure amid rising tuition and student debt
- – Social media overload, FOMO, and appearance-based comparisons
- – Climate change fear and existential dread about the future
- – Uncertainty around career prospects and societal instability
How Anxiety Manifests in College Students
- – Insomnia or irregular sleep patterns
- – Panic attacks and difficulty concentrating
- – Avoidance of assignments, social events, or class participation
- – Physical symptoms like nausea, fatigue, or chest tightness
- – Self-doubt, perfectionism, and low motivation
Integrative Solutions for Managing Anxiety
1. CES CalmBox: Calming the Brain
The CES CalmBox is a cranial electrotherapy stimulation device that uses low-level electrical pulses to regulate brain waves, reduce cortisol, and promote a sense of calm. It can be used while studying or relaxing, helping students manage stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
2. LifeWave Phototherapy Patches
– X39: Activates stem cells and improves overall mental clarity and physical energy.
– Aeon: Reduces inflammation and balances cortisol for emotional resilience.
– Alavida: Supports restful sleep and skin-brain axis regulation.
– Carnosine: Aids in recovery from cognitive stress and supports neuroprotection.
3. EFT Tapping and Breathing
EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and slow breathing (like 4-4-6 rhythm) help calm the vagus nerve and reduce acute anxiety symptoms. These portable techniques can be used before exams, presentations, or during emotional overload.
4. Counseling and Peer Support
Campus counseling centers offer essential therapeutic support. Group therapy and peer mentorship programs can also reduce isolation and help students develop emotional regulation skills.
5. Nature, Movement, and Meaning
Spending time outdoors, walking, or engaging in purposeful activities like volunteering or creative projects help restore perspective, release built-up stress, and give students a sense of agency.
Conclusion: Empowering the Next Generation
College students today are navigating challenges that previous generations never encountered. But with the right mix of body-to-brain techniques, emotional support, and purpose-driven routines, students can transform their anxiety into strength and clarity.
Let’s empower them with the tools they need—not just to cope, but to thrive in this new era.
*This article is for educational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment or mental health program.*