College is often described as one of the most exciting times in a person’s life. However, it can also be a time of significant stress and anxiety, as students navigate new social and academic challenges. With the added pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, mental health concerns among college students have become more prevalent than ever before. SUNY Cortland is committed to providing a supportive environment for its students’ mental health and well-being. The college offers various resources and programs to help students manage their mental health and seek support when needed.
Why is Mental Health Awareness Important?
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in four college students has a diagnosable mental health condition, so if you are feeling embarrassed or ashamed that you may be struggling, know that you definitely are not alone. These conditions are not ones to be. ashamed of rather than to acknowledge and face head on. Without proper support and treatment, these conditions can negatively impact academic performance, social relationships, and overall quality of life.
Mental health awareness is important because it helps reduce the stigma associated with mental illness. When individuals are more open about their struggles with mental health, it can encourage others to seek help and support. This can increase the amount of individuals who come forward about their struggles and get the proper help they need. Additionally, mental health awareness can lead to more resources and funding being allocated to mental health services, and while SUNY Cortland provides countless resources, there can never be too much.
Fortunately, there are many resources available for college students struggling with mental health concerns. Here are a few options to consider:
Utilize the Counseling Center: The SUNY Cortland Counseling Center offers a variety of mental health services to students, including individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, and psychiatric consultations. These services are free and confidential, and can be accessed by scheduling an appointment online or by calling the Counseling Center directly. While some may be hesitant to try out support systems such as these, with the wide variety of options, you’re bound to find one that works for you.
Attend Campus Wellness Events: SUNY Cortland hosts a variety of wellness events throughout the year, including yoga classes, meditation sessions, and stress-reducing workshops. These events are designed to help individuals develop healthy coping strategies and prioritize self-care. By partaking in these events it not only raises awareness for the issue at hand, but it gives you the opportunity to potentially help others out.
Join a Student Organization: There are many student organizations on campus that promote mental health awareness and provide support for individuals with mental health concerns. Joining a student organization focused on mental health can be an incredibly beneficial way to prioritize mental health while at SUNY Cortland. These organizations provide a supportive community for individuals to connect with others who share similar experiences and concerns.
Prioritize Physical Health: Good physical health is closely linked to good mental health. SUNY Cortland has many resources available for individuals looking to prioritize their physical health, including the Student Life Center, group fitness classes, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Acts as simple as walking to classes rather than driving or taking the bus can make all the difference in ones attitude for the day.
Connect with Faculty and Staff: Faculty and staff members at SUNY Cortland are committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of students. If you’re struggling with mental health concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted faculty or staff member for support and guidance. Your professors are more then happy to help and accommodate their students the best possible way but you must speak up.
In addition to these resources, it’s important for individuals to prioritize self-care and practice healthy coping strategies. This may include getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. By prioritizing mental health and utilizing the resources available on campus, individuals can work towards achieving overall well-being and success at SUNY Cortland.