Going to College and Staying Healthy:
Mental Health
What do I do if I am feeling homesick?
Homesickness is very common among students in their first year or two at college. Feeling homesick is natural and does not mean you are not ready to be on your own. If you feel comfortable with your friends, talk to them about it. They are probably feeling the same way. Speak with a counselor if your homesickness does not get better after a few months of school. If you live in a dorm, talk with your resident assistant. It may also help to plan visits home or to have friends and family visit you at school.
Definitely keep in touch with friends and family from home, but make sure you develop new friendships at school. You will probably meet friends in the first few days of school, in your classes, at sporting events, in the cafeteria, in clubs or at social events, and through other friends. Don't worry if it takes a while to find friends - it will happen. Your roommate(s) may become a good friend(s), or you may not click with him/them. You should talk to your roommate right after moving in about issues such as cleaning, sleep habits, and music, so that you avoid problems later on. It is also a good idea to talk with your roommate about drinking and drug use. Talk to a resident counselor if you have problems.
What if I'm under a lot of stress?
Chances are you will probably feel stressed at times throughout college. You may be on your own for the first time in your life, dealing with things without your family and friends from home. If you are stressed, you may feel really tired, have a headache, have trouble sleeping, have trouble concentrating, and/or feel nervous, among many other symptoms.
Some ways to deal with stress are:
The key is to balance classes and school with friends and having fun. Try to always have a positive view and don't forget to have a sense of humor!
What do I do if I'm feeling down?
There are days that you will feel down. These feelings are normal and will go away. At these times, you should take a break from the pressures of college and do something for yourself. Spend time with friends, exercise, read a good book, listen to music, call a friend at another college, talk to your parents, or talk to a trusted person at your college. Do something that makes you feel good.
What if it's more serious than feeling down—like I'm depressed?
Sometimes, feeling down can get more serious and you can become depressed. Depression can be treated. If you have had thoughts of suicide or of harming others OR if you have had any of the following symptoms for 2 weeks or more, see a counselor at your college counseling service right away:
Do not try to deal with depression on your own. See a counselor! And if you have any friends that you think may be depressed, suggest that he/she see a counselor as soon as possible. |
Check out these other College Health Guides:
Knowing About My Health Before I Go to College
Health Services and Health Care Providers
Some Common Health Problems at College
Violence/Abuse in Relationships
Resources: Hotlines/Websites/Books
Updated 2/5/2008
Related Information:
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