Student Loans Impact College Students’ Health and Well-being
A recent study published in the Journal of American College Health indicates that student loans may have hidden costs that go beyond financial burdens. The study reveals that college students who take out loans to fund their education are more likely to experience worse physical and mental health compared to their peers who do not have to rely on loans.
The research, conducted at two public universities in the United States, surveyed over 3,200 college students in 2017. Participants were asked to rate their physical and mental health, as well as whether they had encountered any major medical problems within the past year. They were also questioned about delaying medical, dental, or mental health care due to financial constraints, and whether they had ever taken less medication than prescribed to save money.
The findings unveiled that students burdened with loans faced poorer outcomes, even when taking into account factors such as race, age, gender, parents’ education level, and marital status. Interestingly, while students with loans reported worse mental health, they were equally likely to receive a new mental health diagnosis or treatment during college compared to those without debt. However, they were almost twice as likely to postpone mental health care.
These findings emphasize the hidden toll of student loans on both the physical and mental well-being of college students. The stress and financial strain associated with loans can have a detrimental impact during their time in college, leading to poorer health outcomes and reduced utilization of medical and mental health resources.
Transitioning from their parents’ home, college students are at a pivotal stage in their lives where they establish habits related to medical and dental care. Nevertheless, the financial burden of student loans often forces them to prioritize other expenses over their health. This unfortunate circumstance can result in delayed care, skipped medication, and potentially more severe health problems in the future.
Recognizing the significant influence of student loans on the health and well-being of college students, it is crucial for policymakers, universities, and healthcare providers to take action. Efforts should be directed towards providing support and resources to help students effectively manage their loan debt, ensuring access to affordable healthcare services.
By addressing the financial stressors linked to student loans, we can mitigate the negative health consequences and foster well-being among college students. It is important to prioritize their health and provide a conducive environment that encourages good healthcare practices. This way, students can focus on their education without compromising their physical and mental well-being.
Overall, the study highlights the urgent need to address the impact of student loans on college students’ health. By raising awareness and implementing supportive measures, universities and policymakers can work together to alleviate the burden of student loans and alleviate the associated health risks.
