For those enrolled in college for the first time or returning to campus, there are many things you can do to help navigate this exciting but often challenging time.
College culture can be particularly challenging for students living with anxiety disorders, depression, trauma-related conditions, eating disorders and other mental health concerns. Academic stress, social changes, increased independence and major life transitions can all add pressure to your emotional well-being.
In my years working in a university counseling center, I saw firsthand that many students on campus did not have the tools they needed to succeed. Sadly, some lacked support on campus, while others did not dedicate time for self-care.
I saw with my own eyes how important it is to be prepared and plan ahead.
At Eating Recovery Center (ERC), we work with students facing eating disorders and related mental health challenges at every stage of recovery. Planning for your mental health before stress becomes overwhelming can make a meaningful difference in your well-being and academic success.
How do you maintain mental health in college?
To help you create the most successful college experience possible, the following are seven tips to help you handle any stressors that might come your way.
1. Identify possible treatment options.
Nearly every college now offers university health and counseling centers that provide outpatient mental health treatment options. Call the college counseling center to see if they offer the right service for you; go ahead and make an appointment early! This will allow you to develop a relationship with a provider — or to make alternative arrangements early if they don’t offer services. It’s easier to reach out during a difficult time to a provider with whom you have already established a relationship.
If your campus counseling center does not offer the level of support you need, additional treatment options may be available. ERC and Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center provide specialized eating disorder and mood and anxiety disorder treatment through virtual intensive outpatient programs (virtual IOPs), partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), residential treatment and inpatient care, depending on each individual's needs.
2. Look into disability services.
Did you know that those struggling with mental or physical health issues qualify for disability services? We understand you may hesitate due to stigma, but these services are confidential and are not attached to your academic record. They’re designed to help you succeed.
You may register and never need to use the services, but you might need and benefit from receiving services at some point in time. My suggestion is to register early because if you register late in the year there may not be time to receive the necessary support.
3. Seek out supportive peers.
Look for a mental health advocacy group such as Active Minds or something similar on campus. These groups can help you focus on taking care of your mental health in college, find a supportive, knowledgeable peer network and engage in productive coping strategies. If you’re recovering from an eating disorder, anxiety, depression or other mental health concern, peer support can also help reduce feelings of isolation and strengthen your long-term recovery.
4. Don’t overcommit.
You may be tempted to get involved with everything, but don’t. Choose one or two things that you feel passionate about and get involved with those. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed with multiple commitments when your academic workload becomes challenging.
5. Remember your most important values.
Know what you value most and incorporate these values into your schedule. If family connection is important to you, put family time in your schedule (e.g., FaceTime calls, going home once a month). If community service is important to you, get involved with a service organization on campus. If work is important, find a campus job where the importance of academic deadlines will be understood. The bottom line is to consider your values and plan your schedule with them in mind.
6. Relax.
Include time each day to practice mindfulness and relaxation, and make sure you are getting quality sleep, eating regular meals and maintaining a consistent daily routine. Sleep, nutrition, movement and social connection all play important roles in supporting mental health during college.
In working with thousands of students, I noticed that these important wellness practices are often abandoned by many students. In order to fully function academically and socially, you need to be well rested, nourished and emotionally prepared.
7. Ask for help.
You are not alone. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Silence is easy but asking for help is a sign of strength! Expect and accept that old methods of coping may resurface and make plans to respond accordingly. Find the people and resources you need to make it through without falling into old, ineffective patterns.
If you're struggling, don't wait until things feel unmanageable before reaching out. Many students benefit from outpatient therapy, while others may need a higher level of care. ERC's virtual IOP (Eating Recovery At Home) allows students to receive structured treatment while continuing classes and other responsibilities.
When should a college student seek professional mental health support?
It may be time to seek professional support if mental health symptoms begin interfering with school, relationships, sleep, self-care or daily responsibilities. Warning signs include:
Persistent anxiety
Depression
Social withdrawal
Difficulty concentrating
Changes in eating habits
Feelings of hopelessness
Increased distress during times of transition
Early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Seeking support is not a sign of weakness; it is a proactive step toward protecting your health and ensuring your academic success.
Don’t wait to seek support
Whether you need campus resources, outpatient therapy or a higher level of care, effective mental health care and resources are available, both on campus and through specialized treatment programs. Reaching out early can help you address challenges before they become overwhelming.
Good luck! We wish you good health, happiness and success on your journey!
If you’d like more information about treatment options with Eating Recovery Center or Pathlight Mood & Anxiety Center, please complete this form or call us directly at 877-825-8584. All calls are complimentary and confidential.
FAQs
How can I maintain good mental health in college?
Students can support their mental health by creating routines, prioritizing sleep, staying connected to supportive people, managing their workload, practicing self-care and seeking professional help when needed.
What mental health resources are available for college students?
Resources may include campus counseling centers, disability services, peer support groups, community therapists and specialized treatment programs. Depending on your needs, care may include outpatient treatment, intensive outpatient program (IOP), partial hospitalization program (PHP), virtual IOP or residential treatment.
Can I attend college while receiving mental health treatment?
Yes. Many college students continue attending school while participating in outpatient therapy, IOP or virtual IOP that provide structured support without requiring them to leave school.
What is a virtual intensive outpatient program (virtual IOP)?
A virtual IOP provides structured therapy and clinical support through secure online sessions, allowing individuals to receive intensive treatment while continuing school, work and family responsibilities. ERC's Eating Recovery At Home program provides virtual intensive outpatient care for individuals with eating disorders.
When should a college student consider a virtual IOP?
A college student may benefit from a virtual IOP when symptoms of a mental health condition or eating disorder are interfering with academics, relationships or daily responsibilities, but they still want to remain enrolled in school. Virtual treatment provides more support than traditional outpatient therapy while allowing students to continue living at home and attending classes.