Mental and physical health in students: The role of economic circumstances

Objectives. To investigate the relationship between the physical, social and psychological health of students and their financial circumstances. Design. A survey design was used. Methods. An opportunity sample of 482 university students from two London universities (one old and one new) completed a questionnaire providing information on demographic characteristics, financial circumstances, smoking, drug and alcohol use. Physical and psychological well‐being were assessed using a 14‐item inventory of physical symptoms, the SF‐36 and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ‐12). Results. All sub‐scales of the SF‐36 (except Physical Functioning) and the GHQ indicated levels of health significantly below population norms. Poorer mental health was related to longer working hours outside university and difficulty paying bills. Those who had considered abandoning study for financial reasons had poorer mental health, social functioning, vitality and physical health and were also heavier smokers. Being in debt was associated with knowing people involved in prostitution, crime or drug dealing to help support themselves financially. Conclusion. Results suggest that the financial circumstances of students may be having an adverse impact on their health.