Some students are aware of their diagnoses and make plans to continue with treatment through medical and psychological services once they arrive on campus. Many others, however, are not aware of their needs for counseling or therapy. It is not unusual for teachers to note the need for psychological support even before the student does based on their responses to periods of stress, their attendance in class and observed interactions with peers. Some students have eating patterns that become disordered, progressively worsening as their regular support structures from home are no longer available.
Depression is a psychological disorder that is found frequently among college-aged students.
Symptoms differ from individual to individual but commonly include, apathy, disturbed sleeping patterns, disrupted relations with peers, poor or excessive appetite, disinterest in normal activities and impaired concentration. Eating disorders are common on college campuses. These include anorexia nervosa, a restriction of caloric intake below the starvation threshold, and bulimia, a disorder characterized by eating and purging. Body image is distorted in both these disorders and individuals often engage in excessive and compulsive physical activities. Because thinness is a socially valued body type, these individuals are often praised for their unhealthy eating behaviors, thereby reinforcing the pattern of restriction.