Health Articles For Students: Topics Of Interest

College life can present challenges and stressors, such as being away from parents for the first time, learning to live independently, or navigating a new environment. College students looking to stay informed about their health may want to search for topics of interest in health articles for students. For example, articles focusing on providing information and tips on physical and mental health, nutrition, exercise, and managing stress through holistic approaches may interest students. Below, explore topics that could benefit students navigating the unique features and challenges of college life.

Topics of interest for student health and mental health 

Students might search for articles that focus on health topics that are particularly relevant to young people attending college. In addition to articles focused on cultivating health-promoting habits, one may also benefit from reviewing the latest research in journals and mental health organizations. For example, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) features informative articles backed by scientific findings. Topics of interest concerning mental health might include the following. 

Mental health concerns

Having an understanding of the mental health challenges experienced by many students can be helpful. Articles may offer insight into approaches to addressing these challenges. Individuals can also learn more about signs they might be experiencing a mental health condition. 

Mental health tips

Some established publications offer tips on mental health for college students, such as limiting social media time, eating nutritious meals, seeking social support, and getting enough sleep by practicing healthy sleep hygiene. You can also find studies on evidence-based coping mechanisms. For example, some publications look at mindfulness and meditation. 

The connection between physical and mental health

Publications like Harvard Health Publishing feature various articles in its "Mind & Mood" section that explore the connection between physical and mental health. The mind and body are connected. Finding physical and mental activities to improve both forms of health can keep your systems integrated and functioning. 

Topics related to physical activity and fitness

Physical activity and fitness are notable for promoting health, while inactivity in these areas is associated with negative effects, impacting a person's well-being. For example, physical activity is known to positively affect the health of adults, children, and college students. Fitness can improve mental health, improve one’s metabolic rate, and increase levels of happiness. 

Pertinent articles and studies with tips on physical activity and fitness

Topics related to nutrition, fitness, and health

Nutrition and physical fitness can impact one's overall well-being and academic productivity. For example, eating nutritious meals may enhance focus by affecting brain function. One can glean information on the role of nutrition and fitness in promoting health through various findings.

Nutrition, fitness, and health

An article by the American Psychological Association (APA) claims that children who eat nutritious meals and exercise regularly tend to experience various benefits, such as coping with emotions more effectively, having higher self-esteem, and performing better academically. The article also notes that eating nutritious foods and exercising may prevent chronic illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. 

Articles on the relationship between stress and the immune system

Chronic stress is associated with weakening the immune system, making a person more prone to illnesses, infections, and mental health conditions. Moreover, stress can also slow one's recovery from an illness.

Stress and the immune system

An academic article on the role of stress on the immune system explores the mechanisms through which stress affects immune function. The article notes that chronic stress causes the immune system to prompt a continuous inflammatory response, which can cause ongoing infections and contribute to the development of diseases. 

Topics related to diseases

Factors like lack of sleep, poor nutrition, excessive alcohol consumption, and high stress levels may impact a college student's susceptibility to illness and mental health conditions. 

Diseases and mental health conditions

Under certain conditions, college students may be susceptible to the following: 

• Sexually transmitted infections
• Meningitis 
• Substance misuse

Holistic wellness approaches

Holistic wellness approaches incorporate physical, mental, and emotional health and, in some cases, a spiritual component. The American Psychological Association states that "holistic psychology is not a specific school but a perspective that informs the theories, methodologies, and practice of certain approaches." Activities like meditation, hiking in nature, and healthy eating can all promote a person's overall health. In addition, getting enough sleep, practicing self-care, seeking mental health support, and partaking in enjoyable activities can all be part of a holistic approach to health. 

Holistic wellness approaches in therapy

Therapists offering holistic approaches are trained in integrating techniques like mindfulness into their practice. Examples of holistic mental health approaches include:

• Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)
• Mindfulness-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (MBCT)
• Holistic therapies like music therapy, art therapy, and animal-assisted therapy
• Holistic cognitive-behavioral therapy 

One article explores the importance of practicing techniques such as mindfulness in breathing at home when undergoing MBSR and MBCT. 

Resources for student support to foster physical and mental health 

College students often experience challenges that can affect their well-being and mental health. Challenges might include stress related to academic pressures, work responsibilities, living with others, and substance use. Some campuses have health centers for students that provide medical and behavioral health services. However, some students face challenges accessing these services. Other resources and organizations available for students may include the following: 

• On-campus counseling centers: Some campuses have a counseling center aimed at helping students address stressors associated with going to college. Depending on the center, however, there may be a waitlist period to see a counselor, so making an appointment well ahead is recommended. 
• Online therapy platforms: Online therapy platforms allow you to connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your dorm or space. 
• National mental health organizations: Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI) have student-led clubs on many campuses. NAMI also offers resources, education, and articles for students looking to foster mental health. 
• Peer support groups: Colleges and universities often offer peer groups for students seeking support in navigating specific issues. 

Finding a therapist 

College students often face multiple demands on their time. In these cases, finding a therapist might be challenging. Online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp enables clients to speak with a licensed therapist without having to go to an office. Moreover, clients can send messages to their therapist at any time and receive a message when they are available. Ease of communication can be helpful if you're struggling to manage stress at school and want to ask a question to your therapist. 

One meta-analysis explored the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) delivered online. CBT seeks to address the underlying connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors by reframing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behaving. The study's findings indicate that online CBT can be effective in addressing many mental health conditions, especially with the help of a therapist, which led the researchers to support the use of online CBT in clinical care.