The fragility epidemic: How Universities are undermining student resilienceA specter is haunting American universities—the specter of fragility.
The numbers paint a stark picture. The number of students arriving on campus already diagnosed with and medicated for anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions has skyrocketed in recent years. Data presented to the University of Virginia’s Board of Visitors during a health expansion session reveal a sharp increase in the utilization of mental health services, reflecting a nationwide trend.
While many factors contribute to this fragility epidemic, the well-intentioned efforts of universities to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment have, paradoxically, exacerbated the problem. The proliferation of “safe spaces,” “trigger warnings,” and speech codes, touted as essential for protecting students from emotional harm, has inadvertently fostered a culture of victimhood and a diminished capacity for resilience.
This emphasis on “safety” and protection from harm often leads to a narrowing of acceptable discourse, creating a climate where challenging ideas and dissenting viewpoints are seen as threats rather than opportunities for intellectual growth. This can inadvertently stifle debate, discourage critical thinking, and reinforce the notion that individuals are defined by their group identities and are inherently vulnerable to harm from those with different perspectives.