The College Student Transition – Tips to Navigate the Whirlwind of Change, by Janet Slay, LCMHCA

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​The College Student Transition – Tips to Navigate the Whirlwind of Change 

• The college student transition often comes with oodles of change and a lot of emotions. Students may feel excitement, joy, and relief because of the newfound freedom and the opportunities in front of them. Others may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or sad because of the separation from family or the pressure to figure things out on their own. Many students experience a combination of these emotions, and many more. Adjusting takes time and it is important to take care of yourself as you settle into a new normal. Below are some tips on how to take care of yourself as you navigate uncharted territory in college.​

By, Janet Slay, LCMHCA
www.carolinacounselingwellness.com

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1. Give Yourself Time: In the first few days, weeks, and months of college there is a lot going on. You may be adjusting to a new living environment, getting a handle on your classes, working to connect with other students, and trying to manage your emotions about all these things. It’s okay if it’s taking time to feel comfortable with these changes or if you do not feel immediately settled. Give yourself some grace as you adjust. It may be helpful to remind yourself that other students are also trying to work out the kinks and that you are not alone in this experience. 
2. Identify Your Warning Signs for Stress: We’ve all been there – feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or anxious because things are getting hard. Tuning into when these feelings are starting to rise can help you care for yourself in those moments. Reflect on past experiences that caused you to stress (perhaps it was a challenging test, a conflict with a family member, or a previous transition) and try to write down how it impacted you. Did you cry it out, distract yourself, avoid loved ones, get a headache, or have a hard time sleeping? These things, and many others, can be signs that you’re feeling stressed. These warning signs are often good cues that you may need to pause and utilize helpful coping strategies.
3. Use Those Coping Strategies: Speaking of coping…these strategies come in all different shapes and sizes. This might include exercise, journaling, drawing, going for a walk, talking with friends, taking a break from your phone, and much more. When you notice your stress warning signs, try to do something that you know will make you feel better and won’t have any negative consequences. You may be surprised how helpful a 10-minute walk in the sun can be when you’re feeling down!
4. Treat Your Body Well: Nourishing your body is important and can also help you nourish your mind. This may look different for everyone, but everyone can benefit from ensuring they are getting enough sleep, eating nutritious tasty meals, getting in some movement, and showering. Creating a routine for these things may take time, but prioritizing taking care of your physical self can make big difference in how you feel! 
5. Utilize the Resources Around You: You don’t have do manage everything alone. Every college is different, but many provide students access to the following: 
   1. Libraries: This may include access to study spaces, online catalogs for books, and professionals who can help you navigate all that is available. 
   2. Academic support: Professors may provide office hours for questions/concerns, or they may have teaching assistants (TAs) who can help explain topics, providing support with assignments, or help with developing study habits.
   3. Affinity Groups: Campuses may have identify-specific supports related to race/ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion/spirituality, ability status, and more. Exploring these organization or campus offices may help you connect with others from similar backgrounds or those who have shared experiences. These connections can provide you with necessary support to flourish. 
   4. Academic/Career Advisor: These professionals can help you identify required coursework and assist with academic and/or career concerns. Talking with them early on can help you become more comfortable with reaching out for support throughout your entire academic career. Using these resources during the transition may help you feel better about the academic track you are on. 
   5. Computer/Printing Services: Check out your campus’s options for computer labs, printers, and software that may be needed. Knowing where these resources are can help with completing assignments and feeling prepared for class. 
   6. Tutors: There may be access to free academic support with tutors or writing coaches who are prepared to assist you. Finding these resources early can help you take advantage of them when they are needed. 
   7. Resident Assistants (RA): If you are living on campus, you may have an RA who lives in or around your building. RAs are there to support you, regardless of the concern. They are students too, and they have been where you are now. If you don’t know where to begin, ask them!
6. Seek Counseling: Everybody needs support. Reaching out to a mental health counselor can be important for maintaining your wellness throughout college. The transition to college can be a particularly challenging time for some students and many students have other stressors that may be compounding the effects of this transition.  You can seek support from your campus mental health resources or find a mental health counselor in the community. Counselors can help you identify your warning signs for stress, exploring helpful coping mechanisms, and help you overcome barriers to feeling good about yourself and the stage of life that you are in. 

Use these tips as helpful reminders that you can manage the changes that are ahead of you and it’s okay if you’re not quite sure how to do that. Good luck with your transition and reach out for support if you need it. There are people ready to help! 

By, Janet Slay, LCMHCA
www.carolinacounselingwellness.com