Visits to counseling center up 25 percent; survey says freshmen stress levels worst in decade

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College freshmen stress levels are at their worst in decades, but time-management strategies, friends and fun could help ease troubled minds.

The “American Freshman: National Norms Fall 2010” survey by the Higher Education Research Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles reported the emotional health of college freshman has declined to its lowest ever in the survey’s 25 years.

Gary Silker, an assistant professor of counseling at CMU, said he has seen many more stressed faces lately.

“The number of counseling visits has gone up 25 percent since last semester,” Silker said. “And a noticeable part of those students are freshmen.”

The institute’s survey found just 51.9 percent of students responded their emotional health was above average or within the highest 10 percent, according to a news release.

Although college freshmen are usually the ones more prone to stress out because of new social circles and life adjustments, Silker said the problems students come in with are much different than previous years.

Counselors are seeing students, he said, who are struggling with family support and limited financial means rather than usual academic issues.

“(Central Michigan University) only gave me $840 for a grant, so I am relying on loans from FAFSA to pay for school,” said Oak Park freshman Ashleigh Johnson. “Plus, FAFSA only pays for 12 credit hours, so I don’t know when I’ll graduate.”

Peace of mind

Matthew Prewett, assistant professor of psychology, said it is important for students to be aware of the source of their stresses.

“Being aware of it often leads to working through how to address it and using stress-relieving (methods),” Prewett said.

He said male students are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol to cope, while female students tend to internalize their thoughts and emotions.

Prewett also said students should find a balance between work and fun to counter daily stress.

“Students may need to prioritize their workload and extra activities because burning out is never going to help anyone,” Prewett said. “Being social and interacting is also important though, because too much course work can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed and even depression.”

Along with working on time management, students can also seek help from close friends about their issues.

“I usually talk to my sister or roommate about what I’m stressed about and look for encouragement from them,” Troy freshman Lindsey Siroonian said.

Freshmen are not the only ones feeling the burden of the poor economy. Many college students worry about their post-graduation life.

“We most often see freshmen and seniors, the ones who are entering and exiting school,” Silker said.

To handle these worries, Silker recommends students focus on what they can do instead of worrying about what theycannot.

Prewett also recommended applying for scholarships, creative awards and being as academically competitive as possible to stand out to future employers.

“Worrying is our clue that we don’t feel right about our path,” Silker said. “Turn worries into brainstorming and start networking with people now. CMU’s Career Services center can help people find the right career direction and prepare for the future.”