The hidden challenges we face as students and how we can overcome them

College should be a time of freedom, growth, and getting to know yourself, right? Okay, well… There are, however, many silent fights going on at this time that aren’t always easy to see. Actually, most of the students are having trouble behind the scenes, even though it may seem like everyone has it all together.

Let’s be honest: college isn’t just classes, tests, and staying up all night. It’s about trying to figure out who we are and what we want from life while balancing school, friends, money, and our own mental health.

So, what are these secret problems that college students have to deal with? What’s more, how can we deal with them without getting too tired?

1.  The pressure to succeed

College is often painted as the ultimate stepping stone to success — get good grades, land a great job, live the dream. But let’s be honest, that kind of pressure can feel crushing. Between keeping up with academic expectations, competing for internships, and trying to maintain a high GPA, students are constantly under a microscope. The fear of failure creeps in fast, and it’s easy to feel like one misstep could ruin your entire future. This pressure doesn’t just come from professors — it comes from parents, peers, and even yourself. You start questioning if you’re doing enough, achieving enough, or if you’re already falling behind. It’s not just about passing classes anymore — it’s about outperforming everyone else.

Because of that overwhelming stress, many students start looking for ways to manage their workload without losing their sanity. One common question floating around college campuses is, “Edubirdie can do my homework?” The answer is yes. When deadlines pile up and academic pressure becomes too much, turning to trusted writing services can be a smart way to stay on track. Getting help doesn’t mean you’re giving up — it means you’re taking control, prioritizing your mental health, and finding balance in a chaotic environment. Knowing where and when to seek support is part of being a proactive and successful student.

2. Problems with mental health

The quiet trouble

Going to college can be hard on your emotions. Anxiety, sadness, and feeling alone aren’t uncommon emotions; they happen to more people than you think. But students often suffer in silence because these problems aren’t talked about.

There are more mental health problems on college campuses around the world. This is because of things like stress from school, sadness, and the fear of not fitting in.

Things you can do

Keep the signs in mind first. Talk to someone, like a friend, a counselor, or your tutor, if you always feel tired, anxious, or disconnected. There are free mental health programs on most campuses. Make use of them. That’s why they’re there.

Take care of yourself like it’s a class you need to pass. Do what helps you feel better—a walk, writing in a book, or even just getting more sleep. Mental health isn’t a nice-to-have; it’s a must.

3. Chaos with time management

It seems like there’s never enough time

Some days it seems like there aren’t enough hours in the day to fit in all of the things that need to be done. A lot of students either take on too much or put things off, and both cause stress and burnout.

Also, let’s face it: college time goes by quickly. You look up and see that it’s already Sunday night and the paper is due tomorrow. It seems like it was just Monday morning.

How to get in charge

Making plans is the first step. No matter what works for you, use a smart calendar or a simple planner. Not only class times should be blocked out, but also study times, breaks, and meals.

Try the Pomodoro method: work hard for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. It helps you remember things and keep your mind clear.

Also, don’t forget that saying “no” can help you get things done. You don’t have to join every club or go to every event. Put things that help you reach your goals first; the rest can wait.

4. Sense of self and belonging

Who am I really?

For many of us, college is the first time we really get to know ourselves through our values, beliefs, society, and interests. But that trip can be hard to understand, especially if you’re not at home or are with people who are not like you.

You may wonder where you belong, feel like you don’t fit in, or have trouble balancing your background with new things. That loss of identity? It takes place more often than you think.

Getting through the identity maze

Start by getting involved with student groups or cultural clubs. These will help you meet people who share your background or hobbies. Having a feeling of community can be very grounding.

But also be willing to learn from other people. Accept differences. Remember that college is one of the few places where you can meet people from all walks of life.

Also, remember to be nice to yourself during this time. You don’t have to know everything by the time you graduate. The road of self-discovery lasts a lifetime.

5. Stress over money and being a “Broke college student”

Let’s talk money when ramen turns into a food group. There are a lot of costs that come with college that can quickly empty your bank account. Some students have to work part-time jobs to make ends meet, and even they can feel stressed about their budgets.

Not only does worrying about money hurt your wallet, but it also hurts your mental health and makes it harder to do well in school.

Taking care of your money without going crazy

First, make a budget, even if it’s not very good. You can see where your money is going if you keep track of what you spend. You Need a Budget (YNAB) or Mint apps can help.

Find out about discounts, grants, and funding for students. Don’t be afraid to talk to the financial aid office at your school. They may have tools that you didn’t know about.

Also, it’s really helpful to know how to make a few simple meals. You will be glad you did this, and so will your savings account.

In the end, you’re not alone in This College Sometimes movies make life look too good to be true. There are wild parties, late-night pizza, and graduation caps flying in the air. But behind the scenes, there is a lot of stress, uncertainty, and personal growth.

The problems are real, but so is your strength to deal with them.

Know this: you’re not the only one who is dealing with anxiety, doubting who you are, having a hard time meeting goals, or worrying about money. You don’t have to go through it by yourself.

Get in touch. Talk. Take care of your body and mind. To grow, fall, and try again, give yourself grace. Because college isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s also about becoming who you are.