Results sixth Caring Universities survey

Between November 2024 and March 2025, the Caring Universities (CU) consortium conducted its sixth annual survey on student mental health. A total of 224,055 students were invited to participate, with 11,171 completing the questionnaire, resulting in a 5% response rate—an improvement compared to last year.

The findings indicate a modest overall improvement in student well-being compared to the previous wave, with the most significant progress seen in sleep quality, loneliness, and self-esteem. Despite these positive developments, a substantial group of students continue to experience psychological difficulties. Study-related stress remains high, with 37.9% of respondents reporting serious stress, while one-third (33.1%) regularly feel lonely, and more than two-thirds (68.6%) indicated they had needed psychological support in the past year.

Certain groups remain particularly vulnerable. Female students, non-cisgender students, international students, and bachelor students consistently reported higher levels of depression, anxiety, stress, and sleep complaints compared to their peers. These findings confirm the need for targeted interventions for at-risk groups. In contrast, students’ living environments, whether urban or rural, had little measurable effect on mental health outcomes.

Substance use patterns are largely unchanged from previous years. Hazardous alcohol consumption was reported by 30.8% of male and 27.3% of female students, while cigarettes and marijuana were the most common substances used among those reporting use.

The CU survey remains an essential tool for early detection and intervention. While response rates are modest, the survey consistently reaches students who are struggling, reinforcing its role as a targeted screening instrument. The consortium continues to build on these insights by developing and expanding accessible, evidence-based digital interventions, including both multi-session and single-session programs, to support student well-being across the Netherlands.

The next survey is expected to be sent out in November in the academic year 2025-2026. For details of the study results, please see the study report.