Mental health support during college 

By Molly Stackhouse

The transition to college can be an exciting time, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. For many students, it is the first time they are living away from home and on their own. They are also faced with new academic challenges, social pressures, and financial concerns.


All of these changes can impact a student's mental health. In fact, a study by the National Alliance on Mental Illness found that one in five college students experience a mental health condition each year.


The good news is that there are many resources available to support students during this transition. Here are a few tips:


Connect with your campus counseling center. Most college campuses have a counseling center where students can access free or low-cost confidential mental health services. Counselors can help students manage stress, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. They can also provide support for students who are struggling with academic or personal challenges.


Talk to your RA or another trusted adult. Your resident advisor (RA) is a student who lives in your dorm building and is trained to help students with a variety of issues, including mental health. If you are struggling, don't be afraid to talk to your RA or another trusted adult on campus.


Get involved in campus activities. Getting involved in campus activities is a great way to meet new people and make friends. It can also help you reduce stress and improve your mood. There are many different types of campus activities to choose from, including sports, clubs, and volunteer organizations.


Take care of yourself physically. ITaking care of your physical health can also help improve your mental health. Make sure to eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and exercise regularly.


Ask for help when you need it. Don't be afraid to ask for help from your friends, family, professors, or other trusted adults if you are struggling. There is no shame in asking for help, and it is important to reach out when you need support.


Find a therapist. If you are struggling with mental health and are in college in the state of Maryland, talking to a therapist at Southern Maryland mental health can be helpful. A counselor can teach you coping skills and help you develop a plan for managing your stress. Counselors at Southern Maryland Mental Health have 18+years experience and have immediate availability for in person and telehealth appointments. 


These are just a few of the many resources available to help you manage college life. By following the tips above, you can learn to manage your stress and improve your overall mental health. If you are interested in learning more about counseling in Calvert County, I encourage you to reach out to a therapist and  schedule an appointment  Therapy can be a valuable tool for improving your mental health and well-being.

Molly Stackhouse is a therapist located in Calvert County, Maryland.  She owns a private practice located in Southern Maryland where she specializes in working with adolescents and adults who experience panic attacks. Additionally, she has a strong understanding of the different types of trauma and the different ways that people respond to trauma. She uses a variety of therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and brainspotting. Additionally, she is a nationally certified school psychologist. If you are interested in services, use the link here

Blog information and content by Southern Maryland Mental Health, LLC were produced only for informational purposes. The content is not meant to replace professional medical or psychiatric diagnosis, treatment, or advice. When in doubt about a medical or psychological problem, always consult a licensed professional or other knowledgeable health care provider. Never postpone getting competent medical or psychiatric guidance as a result of what you have read on this website. By reading and using any content produced by Southern Maryland Mental Health, LLC, you agree that neither a therapeutic nor a medical relationship with any professional is being established.
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