College is exciting! It's not only a place we pursue our future dreams, but also the environment that fosters our maturation into adulthood. However, life in college may not be everything we'd hoped, and both stress and isolation can give rise to mental health problems in college students. In my 12 years of tutoring, mental health diagnoses such as anxiety and depression have increased significantly, and current studies agree: Mental health conditions have become a serious concern in college students.
But don't worry! Though mental health problems can seem like a marathon, you don't have to go through it alone! Going one step at a time, while utilizing these resources, can help your journey on your path to success.
Talking with Someone
The one everyone says to do, but also the one that can be the hardest for us to do. Whether it's with friends, family, or even your professor, simply letting loose with emotion in a trusting environment can significantly decrease symptoms of both depression and anxiety. Talk Therapy (also called Psychotherapy) can also be used as a viable alternative to medication, though it necessitates a licensed mental professional.
If you're in need of a mental health professional, ofttimes your college will offer a limited number of free therapy sessions with their mental health organizations (if applicable). If this isn't an option for you, due to accessibility, finances, or otherwise, there are a variety of free phone services that are also ready to aid you in your time of need:
National Suicide Prevention Line (24/7): 1-800-273-8255
Michigan Warmline: (Specifically for those struggling with substance abuse): 1-888-733-7753
Crisis Text Line: Text "HOME" or "RESTORE" to 741741
Michigan Crisis & Action Hotline: 844-446-4225
The Trevor Project: 866-488-7386
If you need someone in person, contacting your county's Mental Health Authority or local health center can usually help with therapy planning.
Programs & Grants
The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services has put together a list of their partnered programs for their populations. These programs aim to help you through your struggles both in college and beyond:
1915(i) SPA: Provides support for those with severe emotional or mental disability
MiCAL: Provides crisis support & behavioral health referral
Autism Benefit: Provides behavioral analysis & referrals
Conclusion
College can be a great time, but it can also be an incredibly challenging time. Keeping up with classes, friends, and the general hustle of life can leave us tired and burnt out, so making sure to keep our mental health intact is vital to our overarching success. Talking with those we trust and utilizing the resources provided by our healthcare systems can greatly improve our mental wellbeing, as well as the wellbeing of our future endeavors.
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