Food insecurity in higher ed has long-term impacts
Food insecurity during higher ed has long-term effects on an individual. These include, but are not limited to:
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higher rates of obesity due to higher rates of quick access foods that are higher in fat and lower access to fresh and nutritious foods
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greater physical and medical complaints and illness
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higher levels of mental health concerns including anxiety and depression
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and continued food insecurity and poverty later in adulthood
(DeBate et al., 2021)
Poor nutrition and negative health outcomes are directly and indirectly associated with food insecurity. In one study, 83% of students were reported to have low energy and a feeling of physical fatigue because of limited caloric intake and poor nutrition (DeBate et al., 2021).
College students are equally affected by food insecurity in terms of their psychological health. There were several themes identified by students: food insecurity affects daily activities; students fear disappointing family members; they resent students with more stable financial and food conditions; they are unable to build meaningful social relationships; they feel hopeless or undeserving of help; and they are frustrated with their academic institution for not providing enough support (Meza et al., 2019).
College can be a stressful time for students, in itself. Food insecurity adds an additional layer of stress and depression for many students (DeBate et al., 2021). Henry (2020) reported the highest self-reported rates for mental health was also among those who were reported as the most food secure.
Social stigma is another concern for students who experience food insecurity. Reducing stigma across campus is critical and the rationale must be clear. The effort to reduce hunger is in reach. It's possible to not have students experience food insecurity. Removing stigma to seek help on your campus can prevent long-term food insecurity into later generations. (Landry et al., 2021)
