Nearly 1 in 3 Students Face Moderate-to-Severe Anxiety Ahead of Halloween
Fear and anxiety are common human experiences, with students being particularly vulnerable. According to the 2025 Health Minds Study, nearly one-third of students reported moderate-to-severe anxiety symptoms. Meanwhile, young adults are gearing up for Halloween, with 93% planning to celebrate this year, spending an average of $622 on costumes and accessories.
College students face numerous anxieties, with HonorSociety.org reporting 13 common fears. These include academic pressure, social isolation, and financial struggles. Anxiety often stems from the fear of the unknown, with catastrophic thinking exacerbating worries. Psychologist Karen Horney, highlighted in a 2024 SimplyPsychology.org report, identified three interpersonal styles related to anxiety: moving towards, against, or away from others.
Anxiety can create a cycle of hypervigilance, making individuals more sensitive to additional fears. However, it's important to note that fear and anxiety also serve as protective mechanisms, safeguarding our safety and health.
As Halloween approaches, let's remember that fear and anxiety are universal experiences, and students are not alone in facing them. Understanding these emotions and their interpersonal aspects can help us support each other and navigate our anxieties more effectively.
