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Nightly worry lists and college student well-being: Strong effects from a simple intervention
Marissa B Williams1, Elizabeth J Parks-Stamm1
1University of Southern Maine, Portland, Maine, USA.
Journal of American College Health : J of ACH
|July 30, 2025
Summary
College students improved mental health, well-being, and productivity by using a nighttime worry list. This simple cognitive-behavioral therapy technique shows promise for student support.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Student Mental Health
Background:
- College students face significant mental health challenges.
- Subjective well-being and academic productivity are crucial for student success.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) includes tools like worry lists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of a nighttime worry list intervention for college students.
- To assess the impact on mental health, well-being, and productivity.
- To explore student perceptions and future use of the worry list technique.
Main Methods:
- A two-wave study design was employed.
- Participants completed baseline and end-of-week surveys.
- A five-night worry list intervention was implemented before sleep.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements were observed in mental health.
- Participants reported enhanced subjective well-being.
- Productivity levels also showed significant gains.
- Over 80% of students intended to continue using worry lists.
Conclusions:
- Nighttime worry lists are an effective, low-cost intervention for college students.
- This technique positively impacts mental health, well-being, and productivity.
- College health professionals can readily implement this strategy.
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