Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the psychological challenges faced by university students, focusing on their struggles with self-identity, emotional distress, and interpersonal relationships, and emphasizes the importance of understanding and supporting their mental health needs [5][15][68]. Group 1: Self-Exploration - Many students express deep confusion about their identity, often struggling to articulate their strengths, desires, and life goals [8][9]. - The concept of identity development is crucial during adolescence, with Erikson's theory highlighting the importance of achieving a stable sense of self [11][12]. - The emergence of a new developmental stage, termed "emerging adulthood," reflects the delayed self-exploration among young people due to societal changes [13][14]. Group 2: Emotional Distress - Students frequently experience emotional turmoil, feeling lost and overwhelmed by the pressures of academic and social expectations [19][20]. - The phenomenon of learned helplessness illustrates how repeated failures can lead to a sense of hopelessness among students [21][24]. - Many students are caught between their past experiences and future aspirations, leading to anxiety and indecision about their life choices [26][28]. Group 3: Interpersonal Relationships - Healthy interpersonal relationships are vital for reducing anxiety and depression, yet loneliness is a common issue among university students [69][70]. - The need for personal boundaries has become increasingly important, with students expressing discomfort with those who lack respect for their personal space [75][76]. - The quality of relationships significantly impacts happiness and well-being, as evidenced by long-term studies on human development [69][90]. Group 4: Coping Mechanisms - Emotional expression, such as crying, is often viewed negatively, leading students to suppress their feelings, which can exacerbate mental health issues [46][56]. - Self-criticism and internalized societal expectations contribute to a cycle of self-attack, making it difficult for students to recognize their achievements and needs [60][66]. - The article advocates for a compassionate approach to self-care, encouraging students to treat themselves with kindness and understanding [67][98]. Group 5: Social Dynamics - The dynamics of friendship and romantic relationships have shifted, with many students feeling disconnected and hesitant to engage deeply with others [78][82]. - The fear of rejection and the pressure to maintain a façade of independence can hinder students from forming meaningful connections [85][87]. - The concept of "Dunbar's number" suggests that maintaining stable relationships is a gradual process that requires time and effort [88][90]. Group 6: Conclusion - The article emphasizes the complexity of young people's psychological experiences, advocating for a nuanced understanding of their struggles and the importance of providing supportive environments for their growth [92][96]. - It highlights the role of psychological counseling in helping students navigate their challenges and fostering resilience [97][100].

Group 1 - The core issue of "defecation freedom" among students has emerged as a trending topic, highlighting the impact of compressed break times on children's health, with some experiencing severe constipation [1] - Approximately 30 million children and adolescents under 17 in China are affected by emotional disorders and behavioral issues, indicating a significant public health concern regarding youth mental health [2] - Despite a general decline in suicide rates in China, the rising suicide rates among children and adolescents warrant attention, reflecting ongoing challenges in mental health prevention efforts [3] Group 2 - Many adolescents are struggling with anxiety and pressure, often feeling unable to rest or take breaks due to a culture of high achievement, leading to a cycle of stress and burnout [4][6] - The phenomenon of children feeling guilty for taking breaks or engaging in leisure activities, such as playing video games, is prevalent, as they associate these activities with procrastination rather than relaxation [8][9] - The lack of opportunities for children to engage in unstructured play and relaxation has contributed to their inability to learn how to rest effectively [10] Group 3 - Adolescents often experience confusion about their identity and future, as they have not had the time or space to explore these critical questions during their formative years [11][12] - Emotional conflicts can escalate into serious issues, including emotional disorders, with an increasing number of children taking time off from school due to mental health challenges [14] - The dynamics of family power structures shift when children take time off from school, leading to increased parental accommodation but not necessarily addressing the underlying emotional issues [15] Group 4 - The repeated cycle of taking time off and returning to school can exacerbate emotional disorders, as children may struggle to reintegrate into the school environment after experiencing trauma [17] - Parents often misunderstand the role of psychological counseling, viewing it as a means to return children to their previous state rather than addressing the root causes of their emotional struggles [18][20] - The need for mutual understanding within family relationships is emphasized, with psychological counseling serving as a vital channel for fostering this understanding [24][25]