University Students’ Mental Health: A Concern for All

Mental health conditions, disorders, diseases, and well-being of university students are rarely on the frontline of health regulations and global and local health agendas even though the World Health Organization (WHO, World Health Organization. (2019, October, 23). Adolescent mental health. World Health Organization (WHO). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health) estimates that worldwide about 10–20% of young people experience mental disorders. Research has shown that student mental health (SMH) and well-being impacts all aspects of student life. They are a crucial group in society in terms of human capital who contribute to future economic growth and development in a country. Hence it makes sense that student mental health is a global concern and that it should get the attention it deserves. Taking this into consideration this chapter is based on a theoretical discussion on the identification and prevalence of common mental health problems experienced by university students across the globe, the causes of their mental health problems and what universities should do to support and prevent students who experience mental health difficulties. The findings clearly articulate the need for a multidimensional and multidisciplinary approach to address the mental health challenges and well-being of university students promulgating a concern for all stakeholders.