Adjusting to College

 

Once entering college, students are faced with an array of new experiences which comes with a set of adjustments. Although this can be an exciting and freeing time with all of the changes ones’ rapid adjustment to this time period might not be “easy peasy lemon squeezy”. Let’s face it when students are still newly in high school they begin to feel the pressures of picking a career path, fitting in to social situations and having a clear-cut picture of what they want their future to look like. As students transition into college life there continues to be the academic pressure along with balancing socializing and working to create that ideal future.

The stress brought on by college can cause students to see for the first time or even experience an increase in previous mental health issues causing this transitional period to become unmanageable. If you are struggling it is important to acknowledge and explore your changes in thoughts, feelings and reactions. Rather than carrying your struggles alone sharing these experiences can create relief by finally giving yourself permission to freely express your concerns during your college experience.