A recent study conducted in Norway sheds light on the alarming prevalence of mental disorders among college and university students. Despite self-report data suggesting an increase in mental health challenges among students in recent years, this study is one of the first to provide accurate estimates of the prevalence of mental disorders in this demographic. The research was carried out as part of the national Students’ Health and Wellbeing (SHOT) Study in 2022 and involved a follow-up online survey on mental disorders conducted from January to February 2023, encompassing a total of 10,460 participants aged 18 to 35.
To assess the prevalence of common mental disorders, a newly developed self-administered electronic version of the Composite International Diagnostic Interview (CIDI 5.0), a validated psychiatric diagnostic survey, was utilized. The study yielded the following key findings:
Current Prevalence: The study revealed a high prevalence of current mental disorders among both female and male students. Approximately 39.7% of female students (95% CI 38.6–40.9) and 25.7% of male students (95% CI 24.2–27.4) reported experiencing a current mental disorder.
Common Disorders: The most prevalent mental disorders among students included major depressive episodes, affecting 17.1% of female students and 10.8% of male students, as well as generalized anxiety disorder, affecting 16.0% of female students and 8.2% of male students. Additionally, 5.6% of female students and 7.7% of male students met the criteria for an alcohol use disorder.
12-Month and Lifetime Prevalence: The study findings also indicated that the prevalence of mental disorders over a 12-month and lifetime period was even higher than the current prevalence estimates.
The study’s implications and potential explanations for these concerning findings are currently under discussion, with consideration given to methodological and contextual factors. The study received funding from the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research.
This research serves as a vital contribution to understanding the mental health challenges faced by college and university students in Norway, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive support and interventions to address these issues.
