Dear readers,

College can be very stressful. Everyday is either crammed full with things to do and get done, or you sit around feeling like you’re not doing enough.

There’s so much space to overthink and get in your head. It can be so easy to let your mental health plunge towards a downward slope as the exams and assignments pile up.

As if school isn’t stressful enough, there’s also the draining moments when it comes to your social life, roommates and relationships.

When these things happen, it can be so scary to reach out and get help from others. The fear of the unknown overpowers the desperate need for support.

I know exactly how this feels. I was really struggling when it came to self-confidence and social anxiety last year. I was constantly inside my head and closing myself off from others. I needed to reach out and find solutions.

Campus has lots of resources for support when it comes to classes, mental health and living situations. 

The biggest resource would be Counseling Services. Many of the counselors here have a lot of professional experience, and overall, want to help students with their mental health so they can have the best possible college experience.

Whether it’s mental health problems, relationship issues or struggles with getting to know others on campus, the counselors can help. You can schedule individual appointments, or go to group counseling.

In my freshman year, I decided to make an appointment at Counseling Services. I was terrified to do this, because I had never done any type of therapy before. At first, I was ashamed to tell people I was in counseling, but I will proudly tell anyone now.

I’ve been going since the fall semester of last year. It was one of the best decisions I made because my confidence has improved so much, and I’ve been able to combat my social anxiety in a much healthier way.

Another great resource would be the Advising, Retention + Career Center. Your academic advisor can help you with anything such as class scheduling, changing your major, future career opportunities, studying abroad and much more.

After my most recent visit with my advisor, I wanted to discuss studying abroad. After we discussed this, she looked at my degree audit and encouraged me to add on a Child Welfare Certificate, saying it wouldn’t affect my graduation date and would help me get more jobs.

She was so encouraging and supportive. She didn’t want to mess up my plan, but she wanted me to get the most out of my college journey. It meant so much to have her support.

Next, if you’re struggling in any of your classes and need support, it’s a great idea to set up office hours with your professor. I still have a hard time remembering to do this, but many professors truly want their students to succeed.

Another option for support is the Student Success Center. Located in Centennial Hall, the Student Success Center has support for study skills, math assignments, writing assignments and help for students with disabilities.

I have been going to the Center for Writing Excellence for one of my English classes and it’s been a huge help. Every writing mentor I’ve worked with has been so nice, and I also come out feeling so much better about my writing.

Finally, if you’re in the dorms and struggling mentally or socially, if you’re having a hard time adjusting to campus or if you’re having roommate problems, it’s a great idea to reach out to your Resident Assistant.

The RA’s core value is to be there for their residents. They want to help you and support you, and they’re just right down the hall. Don’t be afraid to send them a quick message or knock on their door. Remember, they’re students just like you and know exactly what you’re going through.

According to Mark Amend, “Be strong enough to stand alone, smart enough to know when you need help and brave enough to ask for it.”

It’s okay to ask for help. I know it’s scary to admit that you need help, but you’re in a place where support is right at your fingertips. Utilize it, challenge yourself and be vulnerable. I promise it will help you in the long run.

You’re not alone, I promise.

Lots of love and hugs of encouragement,

Skyler

Schad can be reached at [email protected].