Away At College During A Global Pandemic? College Mental Health Resources Can Help
Being in college can already be stressful enough as it is. But, when adding a global pandemic into the mix, college students' mental health becomes even more challenging. Especially when students are away from their homes and unable to easily commute back and forth to their hometowns where they may already have emotional support through loved ones.
Fortunately, there are mental health resources available specifically for college students. Here are several things you can do to improve mental health if you are a college student or the parent of someone who is away from home while attending college.
Locating Mental Health Resources
Most college campuses have mental health resources available on campus. There are also resources you can find online which can be helpful should you need to isolate yourself in your dorm room due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A combination of individual counseling and group counseling sessions with others who are in the same boat as you can be helpful in improving your mental health and wellbeing. However, if you are hesitant due to being concerned about the stigma behind seeking mental health care, perhaps virtual counseling sessions done from the privacy of your dorm room or a private room in the library can be helpful.
Use Coping Skills & Mindful Meditation
When you're feeling stressed, depressed, and/or anxious, it can be difficult to focus on your studies and attend classes, even if they are virtual. There comes a point when the emotional stresses build up and become difficult to overcome without help from mental health resources. One thing that you will learn as you go through mental health resources is that coping skills can help keep you on track with your emotional wellbeing, your mental health, and your studies. A therapist or counselor can help you find coping skills that can help you keep focused and grounded, such as participating in sports or partaking in hobbies that you are familiar with from your childhood.
Another thing you can do is mindful meditation. Your college may have someone on staff who can help you with meditation sessions. Alternatively, there are many resources online that can teach you how to meditate on your own. Additionally, learning how to meditate can be a fulfilling way to reconnect with yourself and with nature while getting some fresh air, simply by practicing meditation outdoors.
For more information reach out to an organization that offers college mental health resources.