Title : Mental health support groups for university students: Prevention of anxiety and depression, promotion of student well-being, and psychiatric nursing research
Abstract:
Introduction: The mental health of university students poses a growing challenge for higher education institutions due to the rise in symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, academic stress, and adjustment difficulties. These issues can impact academic performance, interpersonal relationships, student retention, and quality of life. From the perspective of psychiatric and mental health nursing, support groups are recognized as a low-cost, high-impact strategy for strengthening protective factors, promoting healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering peer support networks.
Objective: To describe the implementation and contributions of mental health support groups for university students as a strategy for promoting psychological well-being and preventing emotional disorders, particularly anxiety and depression.
Methodology: A nursing-led group intervention was conducted at a higher education institution, aimed at students expressing a need for emotional support. The sessions were designed as participatory, reflective, and psychoeducational spaces, addressing topics such as:
- Academic stress management.
- Anxiety and depressive symptoms.
- Self-esteem and self-awareness.
- Life skills.
- Coping strategies.
- Social support networks.
- Life planning and emotional well-being.
The experience was monitored through observation, records of participation, and student feedback.
Results: The support groups facilitated:
- Early identification of risk factors for anxiety and depression.
- Strengthening of coping skills for academic and personal situations.
- Emotional expression in a safe, stigma-free environment.
- Increased perception of social support among students.
- Promotion of self-care and healthy behaviors.
- Timely referral of cases requiring specialized care.
Participants reported feeling heard, understood, and supported, showing improvements in their emotional well-being and their ability to cope with stressful situations.
Discussion: The findings confirm that support groups constitute an effective strategy for promoting mental health within the university setting. Nursing intervention goes beyond the traditional care model, focusing instead on holistic care, prevention, and the strengthening of positive mental health. Furthermore, these spaces help reduce social isolation, foster the creation of support networks, and strengthen student resilience in the face of academic and personal demands.
Conclusions: Mental health support groups represent an innovative and relevant intervention within the university context. Their implementation fosters student well-being, prevents the onset or worsening of anxiety and depression symptoms, and strengthens comprehensive student support. Psychiatric nursing plays a fundamental role in the design, coordination, and evaluation of these strategies, contributing to the creation of healthier, more inclusive, and protective university environments.
Keywords: University Mental Health, Support Groups, Anxiety, Depression, Student Well-Being, Health Promotion, Psychiatric Nursing, University Students.
