Scottish stress capital: Uni of West Scotland students found to be most stressed in the UK

A recent study has revealed the most stressful universities in the UK, with the University of the West of Scotland claiming the top spot as home to Britain’s most stressed students.

The research, conducted by Brown’s CBD, evaluated universities using a “stress score” out of 100, factoring in accommodation costs, course difficulty, student happiness, anxiety levels, and transport expenses.

Leading the rankings with a score of 73.7, the University of the West of Scotland stood out due to its challenging courses and associated financial pressures, which was described by Brown’s CBD as some of the most challenging in the UK.

With the main UWS campus located in Paisley, where many students commute daily, the added burden of travel expenses is seen as a major contributing factor to student stress.

UWS was followed by the University of Sussex at 64.54 and London Metropolitan University at 64.43, rounding out the top three.

Laurence Brown, the director of Brown’s CBD, highlighted the broader implications of the study in a statement to IFA Magazine, saying:

“This study highlights that student stress in the UK has become a widespread concern. Many factors can contribute to increased stress levels at university, such as academic pressures, the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, and feeling isolated from family and friends back home.

“It’s crucial for students to recognise the early signs of stress so that they can prioritise their mental health in an academic setting. These signs may include having trouble sleeping, a lack of concentration, and experiencing changes in appetite. Managing stress at university can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to ease it.

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“We recognise how crucial mental well-being is and believe that fostering a supportive environment is key to managing stress.  It’s essential for students to carve out time for themselves despite their busy schedules. Taking regular breaks, engaging in exercise, and maintaining a balanced diet can significantly enhance overall well-being. It’s also important for students to reach out to those around them for support. Living away from home for the first time can be a challenging experience, which is why openly talking about mental health can be so beneficial.”

In response to the findings, UWS has introduced a range of anti-stress initiatives, including hosting the popular Paws Against Stress programme at the university union. This initiative aims to help students cope with academic-related anxiety by encouraging interaction with volunteer therapy dogs.

Additionally, the university has emphasised its commitment to student well-being, highlighting its mental health services and urging struggling students to seek support from course leaders.

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