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College Student Mental Health Challenges: How DBT Can Help
May 19, 2025
College is often described as the best time of your life—but for many students, it’s also one of the most stressful. Between academic pressure, social changes, and the struggle to navigate adulthood, mental health challenges are increasingly common on college campuses. In fact, more than 60% of college students report experiencing overwhelming anxiety, and over 40% struggle with depression, according to the American College Health Association.
At Mental Health Systems (MHS), we understand the unique challenges college students face. That’s why we created DBT U, a specialized Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) program tailored to college students.
Why Mental Health Support in College Matters
College students are juggling a lot:
- Academic expectations and performance anxiety
- Social isolation or relationship conflicts
- Financial pressures and job responsibilities
- Transitions away from home and family
- Uncertainty about their future
All of these can increase the risk of depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance use, and other mental health struggles. Without proper support, these challenges can derail both well-being and academic success.
What Is DBT and Why Is It Effective?
DBT is an evidence-based treatment that teaches individuals how to manage intense emotions, navigate relationships, and handle distress without harmful behaviors. Originally developed for individuals with chronic emotion dysregulation and self-harm, DBT is now widely used to support people with:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Self-injury
- Impulsivity
- Interpersonal struggles
DBT helps students build resilience and emotional regulation through four core skill sets:
- Mindfulness: Being present and aware of your thoughts and feelings
- Emotion Regulation: Managing overwhelming emotions in healthy ways
- Distress Tolerance: Coping with crisis or intense emotions without making things worse
- Interpersonal Effectiveness: Navigating relationships and setting boundaries
Introducing DBT U: A College-Focused DBT Program
MHS developed DBT U to support the unique needs of college students and college-bound teens who are struggling with emotional and behavioral health issues. Whether a student is already in college, or preparing to start, DBT U offers the structure and skills to help them succeed both emotionally and academically.
Key Features of DBT U:
- Online and accessible—no transportation or geography barriers for students located in Minnesota
- Once a week 3-hour sessions that combine DBT skills training with real-life application
- Short waits—frequent group start dates to avoid long waits
- DBT curriculum specifically tailored to the realities of college life and young adulthood
Who Is DBT U For?
DBT U is ideal for students who:
- Are transitioning from high school to college life
- Struggle with intense emotions, impulsivity, or relationship difficulties
- Need help managing anxiety, depression, or self-destructive behaviors
- Want to return to college after a break for mental health reasons
- Are looking for a structured, skills-based program designed for their life stage
At MHS, we help students regain confidence, build healthier habits, and move forward with a sense of purpose and direction.
Take the First Step With MHS
Get started with DBT U today and start thriving in college. Contact us to learn more about the program or to schedule an intake.
