What If We Really Talked About Student Mental Health?

Student life is exciting, rewarding, and full of new experiences. But it can also become stressful and overwhelming at times. The 2025 “Student Well-Being and Health” survey conducted by the French National Observatory of Student Life highlights growing concerns about student mental health in France.

According to the study, nearly one in three students showed signs of psychological distress in the weeks leading up to the survey. Many reported regularly feeling anxious, exhausted, sad, or emotionally drained. The report also points out that mental well-being can directly affect motivation, academic performance, and everyday life.

Another issue raised by the survey is the difficulty students face in accessing psychological support. Nearly half of those surveyed said they did not know where to turn or how to find the right information when struggling mentally. Despite this, more and more students are now seeking professional help, showing that conversations around mental health are slowly becoming more open and less taboo.

Recognizing the signs

It is not always easy to realize when something is wrong, especially while trying to keep up with classes, exams, work, or personal responsibilities. However, certain signs should not be ignored: unusual fatigue, loss of motivation, sleep problems, constant anxiety, isolation, or difficulty concentrating. Some students may also feel overwhelmed, lose self-confidence, or stop enjoying activities they once loved.

Everyone experiences stress and emotional difficulties differently. There is no “right” way to struggle, and asking for help is never a weakness. Sometimes, simply talking to someone can already make a difference. It is also important to check in on friends, classmates, or loved ones who may be going through a difficult time themselves.

Free support services for students

Several free and confidential support services are available in France for students who need help or simply someone to talk to. CROUS offers an anonymous psychological support hotline, available 24/7, staffed by professional psychologists, at 0800 73 08 15.

The French Ministry of Labor, Health and Solidarity also provides a free emergency hotline for people experiencing suicidal thoughts. By calling 3114, students can speak with a nurse or psychologist at any time.

Nightline, a student-focused organization supported by hundreds of volunteers, also offers a confidential listening service and online chat every evening from 9 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.

Cnaé provides free and confidential support, guidance, and reporting services for students experiencing distress or difficult situations. The hotline is available at 0 800 737 800 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Students can also write to cnae@enseignementsup.gouv.fr if they feel more comfortable expressing themselves by email.

Mash International School of Business, with campuses in Paris and Lyon, is also committed to supporting student well-being and mental health. We believe that even a simple conversation can provide comfort, reassurance, and support. If you are experiencing any form of distress, do not hesitate to speak with a member of the administration or contact Manish Sharma at +33 7 68 90 29 85. You are not alone, and your well-being remains one of our priorities.