Nontraditional and Struggling: Academic and Financial Distress Among Older Student Clients

Abstract

Few researchers have examined the mental health needs of nontraditional student clients (age 25 and older) using a multisite counseling center sample. This study (N = 4,499) included 630 nontraditional students (age 25 and older) who sought counseling services across one state university system. Compared with traditional-age student clients, nontraditional clients were more demographically diverse, presented with different concerns and challenges, and were more likely to report financial stress. Financial stress mediated relationships between nontraditional students status and academic dysfunction.