As the deadline for a paper that is due approaches, levels of anxiety begin to rise. When schedules begin to cut into your social life, anxiety increases then too. Many students try to plan classes and study time around sports, clubs, work and hanging out with friends.

According to the Anxiety and Depression American Association, 34 percent of college students have felt depressed at one point in the last 90 days, 80 percent of college students have felt stressed often and 13 percent of these college students have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety or other forms of mental health conditions.

Not only are college students facing the possibility of academics causing stress, but it can also stem from being away from home, adjusting to a new routine and finding the right social group.

For on-campus residents, it can be overwhelming moving to a new place and having a roommate. It can be just as difficult for commuters as well because not only do they have to stress about finding a parking spot, but they may feel left out of events or groups formed on campus due to their lack of presence on campus all the time.

In the article, “Student Guide to Surviving Anxiety and Stress From College and Beyond”, expert Melissa Cohen shares some techniques college students can use to relax. These activities include:

1. Make time to relax. Take a second out of your busy schedule to inhale and exhale deeply.
2. Prioritize your work and what needs to get done. Start with the easy simple things to get them out of the way before moving onto the harder assignments or chores.
3. Attempt to keep a journal or notebook of how you’re feeling. No one else has to read it, but it helps write away your worries and organize your thoughts.
4. Find time to workout. Run your stress away on the treadmill or take your mind off anxiety by lifting weights. Let your mind take a rest so your body can work on being fit.
5. Think uplifting, happy thoughts. Don’t let the fears and worries drag you down. 

Students at Oakland University have opportunities to seek help and care if they find their anxiety too overwhelming. At the Graham Counseling Center, students are offered six free sessions with one of the many licensed therapists that work there. Students can call and set up an appointment.

Students are also offered counseling in the Pawley Center. This is where psychology majors work with supervisors and begin their counseling careers. 

“Appointments will require 20 minutes of a paperwork and then two hours of assessing what you need and what you’re looking for,” said Ashley Karas, coordinator of the SEHS. “Our center is open all year and we cater to issues dealing with stress, anxiety, career counseling, time management, gender identity, even things like relationship problems. Most of our clients are short termed but there is a way to take on clients long term. The main thing is don’t be afraid. Reach out for counseling if needed.”

OU encourages students to use the resources offered to make their college experience the best it can be.