GUEST COLUMN: Seeking help is not a weakness

College is an exciting, challenging and often stressful time for students.

It is common for some students to have difficulty adjusting to college and, at times, feel sad, anxious, stressed, or have relationship concerns. Many students experience career indecision or poor academic performance. Students may at times feel inadequate, frustrated, and angry, experience loss and go through times of grief. Some students experience serious mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, or schizophrenia.

As graduation approaches, students may become anxious – and excited – about the next phase of life. Some students experience ongoing negative consequences due to their use of alcohol or other drugs.

We all experience negative emotions and difficulties at times during our lives. We all need help on occasion.

When one’s experience of negative emotions, mental health concerns, or consequences of their behavior interfere with day-to-day living, academic or work performance, health or relationships – it is time to make some changes.

Sometimes one can make changes on their own. Sometimes we need help. No matter what, it takes considerable strength and courage to face one’s problems and get help if needed. The importance of seeking help is a focus of the Jed Foundation. Check out https://www.jedfoundation.org/students for some excellent information related to reducing the stigma of seeking help.

Seeking help is not a weakness. It takes strength and courage to face and deal with one’s problems.

At CMU there are many sources of assistance for counseling and academic support.

24/7 Suicide Prevention Crisis Lines for everyone: