Challenging mental health stigma on the modern campus

By Itayi Washe | Apr 1, 2026 | 3 Min read

The university experience is often said to be the “best years of your life.” However, beneath the surface of the Instagram-perfect study routine and seemingly effortless academic performance, many students are quietly struggling with anxiety, depression, and burnout.

Despite the increasing rates of mental health issues among young people, one of the most important factors hindering university students from seeking help and support is stigma.

According to the World Health Organization one out of every eight people worldwide lives with a mental health issue. However, for university students, talking and being open about their mental health issues is a challenge. Stigma, or the “social mark,” turns mental health issues into a source of shame.

The Silent Pressure on Students

For many students, stigma takes a subtle but potent form. Some may worry that a mental health diagnosis could hurt their future employability prospects. Others may worry that they will be perceived as weak by their peer groups. Many simply rationalize that they need to “tough it out,” that everybody else is doing just fine.

This silence around mental health is a problem that may have serious repercussions for students. When mental health is perceived as a taboo rather than a legitimate health issue that is shaped by biological and environmental factors, students may delay seeking help for their mental health. The repercussions may be serious: students may start to perform poorly in their academics, have poor relationships with their peers, or engage in negative coping mechanisms such as substance abuse.

Breaking the Cycle of Stigma

However, it is not enough to simply be aware of the issue; action needs to be taken by both the university and the students. One step is to normalise the discussion around mental health by making it a part of the curriculum. While universities may hold the odd "mental health awareness week," this is not enough. When students are educated on the subject, the stigma around mental illness decreases. When students understand the science behind stress and mental health, mental illness is no longer a personal failing.

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Another step is the implementation of a peer support system. When students understand that their fellow students in the lecture hall may also be struggling with their mental health, this can be a source of comfort. Students can provide a sense of community and belonging for one another.

The Role of Universities

University administration should take the initiative to provide a conducive environment as well. Implementing flexible wellness policies without penalty, such as extending deadlines or providing a day for mental health, can greatly impact students.

Mental health issues should be taken as seriously as other illnesses for students. This would convey a powerful message to students: their worth as individuals is not defined by their performance; rather, their worth is defined by their well-being.

Platforms such as WhatsApp and Instagram can be effectively utilized for the dissemination of information and the promotion of mental health awareness among students.

A Culture of Support

Ultimately, the shift in attitude around mental health starts with the small things we do. It starts with calling a friend who hasn’t been coming to class, asking them how they’re doing without judgment, and answering the question honestly when a friend asks you: "How are you?"

Asking for help is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of strength. By creating a culture where students feel comfortable asking for help without fear of judgment, we can create a campus where students no longer have to pretend to be "okay" but can instead be real.

The objective is obvious: to create a campus where silence is replaced by conversation and where no one has to suffer alone.

Itayi Tembani is currently a Psychology student at Great Zimbabwe University