Dealing with poor mental health can prove to be one of the most difficult and isolating experiences a college student can face and that’s why it’s especially important for students to prioritize their personal well-being by developing healthy coping mechanisms, getting enough sleep, maintaining good nutrition, nurturing relationships and connections and taking breaks from sources of stress. Students should also remember that asking for help when they need it is an important part of taking care of themselves.
Kirkwood Community College offers a wide variety of free resources students can take advantage of, one of the biggest examples being Kirkwood’s counseling services, which offer free professional counseling located at Iowa Hall 3034 and open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. for students to stop by.
Taking advantage of these counseling resources as a student can be one of the most cost-effective and beneficial steps toward success in college. The staff here at Kirkwood care about the well-being of the student body.
Whether you need help dealing with significant mental health problems, or if you just need someone to talk with about the stress of college life, Kirkwood’s counselors are there to help.
It is understandable that students may ignore warning signs of mental health struggles in an effort to “push through” and get the most out of the tuition they have paid. However, according to Southern New Hampshire University, stress can cause negative long-term impacts such as fatigue, stomach and sleep problems, anxiety, irritability or anger, depression, lack of motivation, eating issues, drug/alcohol abuse, isolation and angry outbursts.
All of these symptoms can affect your school experience more than taking a break would. It is important to note that stress and failure are not synonymous.
There are many factors that can contribute to poor mental health, whether they are personal or directly related to academics. If you are struggling or notice changes in your mental health, we encourage you to recognize those warning signs and seek support.
There are actions to take, such as journaling, reaching out for support and comfort, upholding boundaries, medication or even by taking the step to schedule an appointment with one of Kirkwood’s counselors, whom you can contact at 319-398-5540.
For students who feel they are in crisis, Kirkwood Public Safety offers a helpline at 319-398-7777 to provide assistance with a range of concerns. Other helplines include the Foundation 2 crises line at 800-332-4224 and for emergencies, 911. There is also a 24/7 suicide and crisis hotline at 988.
Categories: Opinion, Staff Editorials
