How to Take Care of Your Mental Health in College

A wide range of events can affect your emotional health as a student, from failing an important exam to losing a loved one.

Often, a university is a student’s first experience being independent. Some students may have a difficult time adjusting to their new routines and environment, all while juggling their schoolwork and social lives.

Issues like depression or anxiety may get blamed on the shuffle of classes and homework, and go unacknowledged. Sometimes the loss of a loved one or another traumatic event may affect a student emotionally, and it may be difficult for a student to know when to reach out for help.

Many universities provide psychological counseling services, but only an estimated 10 percent of college students seek professional help. According to the student health center at West Virginia University, many students may not seek help for fear of being labeled as “crazy" or “weak," even when the resources are available and affordable.

Unfortunately, many students may have problems that go unaddressed; as much as 75 percent of mental illness manifests itself by the age of 24. Students who suffer from a traumatic event may not recognize symptoms of an acute anxiety disorder, such as PTSD. There are plenty of legitimate reasons for students to seek help; unfortunately, many students do not.

Please don’t hesitate to use your university's student health resources if you feel like you need assistance. Don’t get bogged down by social stigmas. Contact your university’s Psychological and Counseling Services or Disability Services (again, no stigma) to see what kind of help they can provide.

College can be a difficult and stressful time, but it shouldn’t be overwhelming. Make sure that you don’t forget to take care of your emotional health during your pursuit to graduate with honors. Sometimes it’s hard to ask for help, but it’s always the right thing to do.

Editor’s note: Check Noodle’s topic page about mental health for more information.

Sources:

The Pennsylvania State University Division of Undergraduate Studies The Mentor

Education (Survey: 10% of college students seek counseling) USA Today Why You Should Go To the Counselor, Even If You're Okay | wellwvu | West Virginia University

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder & the College Student. (n.d.). Retrieved from William & Mary