By: Stan Popovich
It can be stressful when you go to college especially when you struggle with your mental health.
Should I Attend College
1. Determine your goals and interests: It is important to decide if you want to go to college. Talk to a career counselor to get an idea of what your options may be and do what is best for you. Remember that going to college is not for everyone.
2. Do your research: Make a list of colleges that you may like attending. Talk to the appropriate advisors at each college and determine if there is anything you like about a certain college. Discuss your academic goals and personal concerns with your family and college advisors.
3. Choose the right college: If you decide to go to college, it is important you pick a college that you will be comfortable going to. Some people may not want to go to a large campus and may decide to go to a smaller school. Decide which college will best suite your needs rather than trying to impress others.
How To Prepare for College
1. Talk to other students: It is a good idea to talk people on campus about their experiences. Ask questions and make sure that you know what to expect before classes begin. Talking to current students and others can give you a good idea on what to expect from your first semester.
2. Visit your school’s mental health counseling department: Many students deal with various mental health issues during their time in college. Instead of waiting until you feel anxious, get to know the people at your school’s mental health counseling department before school starts. This way, you will know who to talk to if you struggle with your mental health.
3. Take it one day at a time: It is common to get anxious before starting college. Follow mental health practices such as eating healthy, practicing meditation and mindfulness, exercise, and deep breathing. You do not have to wait for college to talk with a mental health professional about your anxieties.
What To Do When College Starts
It is important to get everything read before going off to college. This will help make your transition easier.
1. Get involved: Join clubs or organizations on campus. There are all kinds of different programs that a student can take advantage of. This is a great way to meet people with similar interests as you.
2. Build new friendships. It is important to choose your friends wisely. It is important to spend your time with people that you feel comfortable being with.
3. Take advantage of campus resources: Use academic resources and transfer-specific support programs at your school. These programs can help address some of your concerns that you may have on campus.
4. Talk to your professors: Many of your professors will have the time to talk with you if you have any questions. Asking questions will give you a better idea of what you need to do to pass your classes.
5. Practice positive thinking: Positive thoughts can improve physical well-being and provide a clear mind. When you feel yourself thinking negatively, counteract these thoughts by giving yourself positive encouragement. Positive reinforcement during stressful times can help manage your fears and anxieties.
Take Care of Yourself in College
Starting college can be a little scary so here are a few tips on what you can do to make things a little easier.
1. Give yourself some time: It’s normal to feel uncertain when you first start college. Take it one day at a time. Do not let others pressure you into doing things that make you feel anxious and uncomfortable.
2. Prioritize self-care: Make sure you’re eating well, taking regular breaks, and being active. Monitor your drinking when you’re at different parties and do not rely on drugs and alcohol to relieve your stresses and anxieties.
3. Eat and sleep regularly: Adjusting to college life can be stressful. Make sure you eat three healthy meals a day and get enough rest. You will feel happier and healthier and be better able to adjust to college life.
4. Learn how to manage your studies: Most college classes involve writing many papers and a lot of studying. The key is to learn to take things one step at a time and using your time management skills to stay on top of things.
5. Ask for help: Visit the student counseling center to discover the different mental health resources your school may offer. Talking to a mental health professional can determine your stress triggers, develop a mental health plan, and determine healthy ways to cope with stress.
You Have Options
College is the time to discover who you are and what you want to do with your life. Do not be afraid if things do not work out according to your plans. You always have the choice to change schools or do something else that will help accomplish your goals.
Many students change schools during their time in college. It is important to know what makes you feel comfortable and determine what is best for you when it comes to accomplishing your personal and professional goals.
Like What You Read?
You will greatly increase your chances of finding the answers to your mental health issues if you use my book, website articles, and my blog at the same time. You can also review the rest of my website to get a better idea of how my experiences and advice can help you. Consider getting my affordable book right now at PayPal, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble by clicking on Get Stan’s Book
