College students are experiencing mental and behavioral health concerns at significantly higher rates than their non-enrolled peers, according to new findings from UnitedHealthcare’s fourth annual Young Adult & College Student Behavioral Health Report. Among college students surveyed, 69% reported experiencing a mental or behavioral health concern in the past year, compared to 54% of young adults not enrolled in college. This reflects a 15-point higher overall incidence among students.
The survey found consistent levels of mental health challenges across four years of data, with more than 6 in 10 (62%) of both college students and young adults reporting that they or a friend/roommate experienced a mental or behavioral health concern. Among college students, anxiety/stress, depression, and ADD/ADHD were self-reported at the highest rates. The report also revealed a perception gap between students and parents: while 69% of students self-reported a mental or behavioral health concern, only 43% of parents believed their students experienced one.
Digital tools and AI-based platforms are increasingly shaping how young adults manage mental health. The report found that 31% of respondents reported they or a friend/roommate used AI-based platforms for symptom exploration, information gathering, or coping strategies in the past year. Among those using AI tools, 26% turned to them for companionship, reassurance, and/or emotional support. According to Dr. Nicole Brady, Chief Medical Officer of UnitedHealthcare Student Resources, “As young people are increasingly turning to AI for guidance, it’s critical that families, educators, employers, and health care stakeholders work together to help improve health literacy, strengthen care navigation and expand timely access to care.”
Cost remains a significant barrier to care. Of all young adults and college students who reported not seeking help for behavioral or mental health concerns, 25% cited cost as a barrier. The survey, which included 501 college students, 523 parents of college students, 502 young adults not enrolled in college, and 505 parents of young adults not enrolled in college, was conducted online between October 16-31, 2025.
This article is an AI-assisted summary. All facts and figures are drawn from the original report: https://www.huntingtoncountytab.com/articles/features/mental-health-awareness-month/