At Florida A&M University, students report that balancing academics, finances and personal life becomes increasingly difficult toward the end of the semester as deadlines, bills and responsibilities collide all at once.
As final exams week approaches, many college students say the pressure to succeed, combined with financial stress and social expectations, is taking a toll on their mental health, making sleep scarce and small setbacks feel emotionally heavier.
“I think the biggest stressors are financial aid and juggling a social life while also focusing on school,” said Mariah Windom, a FAMU student. “I don’t think mental health in general is a taboo subject, but men’s mental health specifically might be. I think we have plenty of resources on campus, but students aren’t aware of them.”
For Anju Sujanani, the challenge is maintaining stability while facing financial strain and social pressure, as she navigates coursework, friendships and responsibilities without consistent support.
“The biggest stressors students face at FAMU, in my opinion, are financial pressures and the belief that they need to fit in,” Sujanani said. “Being in college is already hard and making sure that school is paid for while also having money for your wants and needs is rough. The idea that every student has to look or act a certain way on campus can also be taxing for those who are still trying to figure themselves out.”
“I think we are talking about it more, especially with men. However, I do feel like we talk more than we take action. There is still a way to go,” Sujanani said. She added that while conversations about mental health are becoming more common, there is still room for improvement.
“The biggest stressors students face at FAMU are academic pressure and financial stress,” Kayla Smith said. “Yes, mental health is still a taboo at FAMU because many students feel uncomfortable talking about it with people at the school.”
Smith agreed that students often struggle to balance financial and academic demands which may leave many exhausted, discouraged and questioning future goals.
While all three students said there are mental health services on campus, several expressed concern that awareness and accessibility remain limited, particularly during high-stress times such as final exam week, when times and confusion about services discourage students from seeking counseling.
Sujanani said she wishes professors and administrators would take mental health days more seriously when it comes to classes and assignments, by offering flexible deadlines, makeup work and communication about expectations.
As universities nationwide continue to prioritize student wellness, students at FAMU hope the conversation will lead to more tangible support and that the stigma surrounding mental health will continue to fade, allowing future generations to prioritize healing without fear or suffering.
