Creating a Balance: Navigating Mental Health and Academic Excellence in Universities

By A’ishat A. Akano 

Mental health is a fundamental part of overall well-being. It is the cornerstone of how individuals perceive themselves, their environment, and their ability to manage daily stress. University, as a ground for intense academic pressure, also plays a critical role in shaping students’ mental health landscapes. While much attention is given to academic achievement, the support for mental health often falls short, leaving students to navigate this complex balancing act alone.

Academic excellence is often seen as the primary goal in higher education. It is the metric by which students measure their success and prospects. However, this narrow focus overlooks the significant impact that relentless academic pressure has on students’ mental health. The drive for high grades, career prospects, and keeping up can lead to extreme stress disorder, anxiety, and even depression. This environment creates a culture where mental health is frequently neglected all in the name of academic excellence.

Universities have a responsibility to support student well-being holistically. Many institutions have made strides in providing mental health resources. The University of Ibadan ensures that its students are registered in the University Health Centre, some departments even go ahead to have advisors to guide students not just in their academic journey, but their welfare too. Even though, in most cases, this is not well acknowledged and utilized. The stigma that surrounds mental health also creates a barrier, preventing many students from asking for help.

Personal stories from students highlight the urgent need for a more comprehensive approach. We can take a look at the case of a friend during our freshman days who was a victim of depression before getting into school and had thought she had overcome her wars and became mentally weak as a result of the pressure to remain academically strong. She was only helped after we, her friends noticed her condition and impelled her to open up to us.

This experience gives a view on the issue where academic success is prioritized over mental health. It is worth noting that while you want to be a book guru, it is very essential to pay good attention to your health.

There are various effective strategies for balancing mental health and academic excellence. One way as an individual is to look out for events on improving mental health on campus. Programs such as this educate students about the importance of mental health, how to recognize signs of distress, how to overcome stress, and where/when to seek help. An example of a student organization centered on mental health is the Asido Campus Network.

Additionally, it has been proven that students feel comfortable discussing their struggles with their peers. You can adopt this method with peers you trust can help you out. Do not be a loner, have proper and fulfilling conversations with people you are comfortable with and those who understand you.

In conclusion, the pursuit of academic excellence should not come at the cost of mental health. The environment of the university should be one where students can thrive both academically and personally. By prioritizing mental health, students can achieve a true balance, ensuring that their college experience is both fulfilling and sustainable. Just as fashion is an expression of identity, so too is the way we manage our mental health. It is time for us to embrace a more reliable approach, allowing students to excel without compromising their well-being.