Academic Stress and Mental Health Issues among University Students in Pakistan

Abstract

The issue of academic stress has become a significant area of concern in the public health of university students in Pakistan, where the growing academic demands, financial needs, competitive learning conditions, and the lack of a well-developed psychosocial support system have contributed to the development of mental health problems. The paper examines the common factors, occurrence, and the psychological impact of academic stress among the students attending the public and private universities, in terms of anxiety, depression, burnout, and poor academic performance. Based on an empirical literature review and theory-related models, such as the Stress Process Model and the Cognitive Appraisal Theory, the study portrays the extent of student susceptibilities by contextual elements, including gender norms, socioeconomic status, institutional culture, and family expectations. The results indicate that negative effects of academic stress, such as emotional exhaustion, decreased coping ability, and worsening mental health are strongly linked to prolonged academic stress. The article highlights the fact that campus-based counseling service, stress-management programs, and supportive academic policies are urgently required in mitigating mental health risk factors amongst students. Implications of the policy and research directions are also addressed.