Mental Health for First-Generation Students

According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success, first-generation students — the first people in their immediate families to attend college — made up over half of the college student population in 2015-2016. For first-generation students, adjusting to a new environment can be difficult and may cause mental health challenges.

First-generation students who lack sources of financial support may encounter additional stressors that can lead to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated many mental health challenges for first-generation students.

It is important that first-generation students have access to a variety of mental health support options. In this guide, we explore the different types of mental health support available to first-generation students, barriers to accessing care, and resources to help students connect to mental health support.

Each year, mental health becomes more of a priority on college campuses nationwide. Many supportive colleges offer a variety of mental health services.

Most private and public colleges host on-campus counseling centers staffed by licensed therapists. Counselors often offer in-person or teletherapy sessions to help students navigate mental health challenges. These centers may also offer group therapy, treatment recommendations, and referrals to off-campus support options.

Many colleges recognize that wellness services like nutrition counseling, fitness classes, and substance-related treatment programs are necessary to help students take care of their holistic health. These types of programs can include peer counseling sessions and workshops to help students improve personal coping strategies.

First-generation college students may encounter many challenges when looking for mental health support. The pressure to succeed academically can cause some first-generation students to avoid seeking help altogether. Fear of negative stigmas associated with mental health can create barriers between students and support systems.

There are also institutional barriers that can hamper first-generation students’ ability to access help. Lack of cultural and ethnic representation among mental healthcare providers can prevent some first-generation students from seeking the resources available to them or render the help they do get harmful or ineffective. Students searching for culturally competent care may feel put off by the small number of available providers who share their own identities.

Many first-generation students tend to have less generational wealth than their peers. They’re more likely to experience financial challenges during and after college, due to student loans and other debts. These economic challenges can also make it harder to afford therapy or other mental health supports.

When choosing mental health support, first-generation students should consider multiple factors. Students should regularly consider how they feel, checking in with themselves and learning about useful coping strategies.

First-generation students might value a therapist with a similar cultural background or lived experiences. It is important to find a therapist who practices culturally competent care, no matter their background. A counselor’s ability to support your needs is an important factor when considering your mental health support.

On-campus mental health services are often offered at a discounted rate or included in tuition fees. Check with your school to find the available options that might fit your needs. Fortunately, telehealth services are now commonplace and offer students the option to receive support from any location.

A first-generation student is the first member in their family to attend college. If neither of a student’s parents hold a bachelor’s degree, the federal government’s Higher Education Act categorizes them a first-generation student. Many first-generation students lack direct familial exposure to higher education.

Some first-generation students grapple with guilt for leaving their families to go to college. This can lead to feelings of shame, confusion and imposter syndrome as they try to navigate the college environment.

Other challenges first-generation students can face include financial barriers like paying for college and isolation. Some first-generation students who identify as racial minorities may experience discrimination on-campus, causing feels of separation or lonliness.

Mental health and social health influence each other. Mental health issues can lead individuals to social isolation and losing interest in previously enjoyable activities. Social health issues, including those connected to social media, can alter individuals’ perspective of others. This view can impact self esteem and feelings of anxiety.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided on this website is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Readers of this website should consult with their physician to obtain advice with respect to any medical condition or treatment.