Contributor: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC, Special Projects Coordinator at Eating Disorder Hope/Addiction Hope
College students today face enormous pressure from various ways during their time spent on campus. Pressures might be faced academically, socially, physically, emotionally, and more. The pressure to succeed in various ways can be both internal and external. Some students may put pressure to perform on themselves as they strive to succeed and find their way through college. Other students may find pressure comes from outside sources, such as well meaning parents, family, friends, and others who are pushing them towards collegiate success. For many students, the pressure to perform is something that is faced from the combination of both internal and external sources.
Pressure Builds
While having some pressure can be motivating to a degree, facing increased pressure to perform can ultimately be anxiety provoking or in the long run, deter a person from succeeding in whatever goals they have for themselves. As a college student, when experiences become more about what you can accomplish rather than the journey itself, finding the motivation to carry on can be more challenging.
Many students may find themselves buckling under the many pressures faced during their college years, which may lead to unhealthy ways of coping. For some students, the use of illicit drugs can create an artificial sense of control in an environment that seems impossible otherwise. Methamphetamines are stimulant drugs that are commonly abused by college students. The abuse of stimulants like Methamphetamines may be in attempt to increase energy, stamina, and productiveness, all which are desirable in the face of pressure to perform.
The bottom line is that no drug or substance can enable a student to truly accomplish all within their potential and capabilities. While it can be easy to fall into the trap of drug use, particularly in an environment where it is more readily available, the misuse of substances can only lead to more problematic issues. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression or other symptoms as a result of pressure to perform, reach out for appropriate help and care. Connect with a wellness specialist on campus to process what you are experiencing and find healthy ways to cope under this pressure.
Community Discussion – Share your thoughts here!
What pressures do you think college students are facing in terms of success and performance? What are methods that may effectively help relieve students of the unnecessary pressures they may be facing in the collegiate world?
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of addictions and co-occurring disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Addiction Hope, but an effort to offer a discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals. We at Addiction Hope understand that addictions result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Last Updated & Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on September 4, 2015. Published on AddictionHope.com