Mental Health Challenges Among Chinese Art Students: A Critical Review of Body Image, Social Comparison, and Academic Stress

Abstract

Mental health issues among university students in China have become increasingly prominent, particularly within specialized disciplines such as art education, where students face unique psychological challenges. This critical review explores the mental health landscape of Chinese art students, with a focus on three major contributing factors: body image dissatisfaction, social comparison, and academic stress. Using a narrative review approach, relevant literature from peer-reviewed journals, government reports, and academic databases was analyzed to understand how these stressors intersect and impact student well-being. The findings indicate that body image concerns are intensified by aesthetic expectations within art environments and exacerbated by exposure to idealized imagery on social media. Social comparison, both offline and online, further contributes to self-esteem issues, anxiety, and perfectionism. Meanwhile, academic pressure related to competitive evaluations, performance-based assessments, and career uncertainty imposes additional mental burdens. The combined influence of these factors creates a high-risk psychological environment for art students in China. This review highlights the urgent need for culturally sensitive mental health interventions, increased institutional support, and future research that addresses these intersecting challenges. The implications extend to art educators, mental health professionals, and policymakers seeking to promote emotional well-being in creative education contexts