College mental health has been a hot topic in schools everywhere, especially in recent years. In fact, one study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that more than 60% of college students met criteria for one or more mental health problems between her 2020 and he 2021. I understand.
If you’re going to college, it’s just as important to pay attention to your mental health as it is to eat healthy and exercise regularly. means to Use this guide to find out how to overcome common mental stress and reach your educational and career goals.
depression
Depression can be difficult to identify because it can make you feel low or depressed at some point. When you start feeling depressed, assess how it affects your daily life.
- Is there a difference between sleeping and eating?
- Are you staying home more?
- Do you no longer enjoy activities you used to enjoy?
- Do you feel tired and lethargic more often?
- Are you having trouble concentrating and participating in class?
If the answer to any of these is yes, it may be time to seek help.
A great place to start is the Counseling Center at Azusa Pacific University, which offers free in-person and online therapy sessions. Counseling is ideal for all difficult situations you face in college. Talking about your problems and thoughts with someone can help you find clarity and solutions. Counseling centers can also help determine if school schedules need to be changed or if further care should be sought.
anxiety
College can be stressful, especially the first year, and some anxiety is normal. However, when it overwhelms you to the point that it affects your personal life or schoolwork, it may be time to seek support.
Start by considering the cause of your anxiety. Are you taking too many classes? Need help understanding the class material? In these cases, the Academic Success Center can provide practical solutions to your stressors, including tutoring, writing assistance, and academic advice. If you have deeper concerns, consider registering for APU’s free Anxiety Toolbox Workshop. In this two-week workshop, you’ll learn how to identify stressors in your life and create a plan to deal with them. Counseling centers are also a great resource.
poor sleep quality
Sleep is essential for health, including mental health. It can be even more important in college, as you often have to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your college brain needs 7-9 hours of sleep each night to function optimally. Without this amount of quality sleep, you are more prone to depression, weight gain, stress, and irritability.
- Too much screen time before bed
- Caffeinated drinks after 2pm
- Too much artificial light, not enough sunlight
- Heavy, greasy, or sweet foods before bed
- alcohol or drugs
- not getting enough exercise during the day
- all kinds of stress
You might be surprised at how small tweaks in these areas, such as not looking at screens an hour before bed, can improve your sleep quality. However, some disruptors may require additional support.
Mental Health Support for APU University Students
APU is committed to the academic well-being, mental health, and mental health of all students. Whatever you face, don’t go through it alone. In fact, you are not alone at all.
Schedule a free talk with a counselor or join us for a group counseling session today. You can also get valuable help from the Student Health Center. Regardless of whether or not you have health insurance, you can have a medical examination for free.
Remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health. If you are in trouble, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Posted on: January 9, 2023
