Stressed at College of the Canyons? Signs it might be time to talk to someone
College is a lot at once: classes, work, money, friends, family, and figuring out who you are. A little stress is normal. But if it starts to crowd out the rest of your life, it may be time to talk to someone.
A few things students often notice
Sleep gets thrown off
It's harder to focus or get started on assignments
You pull away from friends, or small things feel overwhelming
You feel on edge a lot of the time, or flat and tired most days
None of this means something is wrong with you. It usually means you're carrying a lot. You don't have to wait until things fall apart. Many students find it helps to talk with someone outside their circle, someone who listens without judgment and isn't grading you.
Campus support is great, and sometimes you need a little more
College of the Canyons has great resources on campus, and we think that's wonderful. If those work for you, use them. We're not here to sidestep them.
Sometimes you need more flexibility with scheduling than campus can offer. Sometimes you need more support than the number of sessions allowed per semester. That's where we come in, as an extra support for the students and neighbors in our community.
A quick self check-in
Stress at college is normal, but it helps to know where you are. Ask yourself: How have I been sleeping? Am I eating regularly? Have I stopped doing things I used to enjoy? Do I dread going to class or work? Am I more irritable or tearful than usual? Do I feel like I am falling behind no matter what I do? If several of these ring true for more than a couple of weeks, it is a good time to reach out.
Small things to try this week
You do not need to overhaul your life. Try one or two small steps. Take a ten minute walk between classes. Write down everything on your mind and circle the one thing that matters most today. Set a stopping time for studying and honor it. Eat something before a big task. Text a friend and tell them you are having a hard week. Small, repeatable habits help more than big plans you cannot keep up.
A simple script for asking for help
Reaching out can feel awkward. Here are a few ways to say it. To a friend: "I've been really stressed lately. Can I talk to you about it?" To a professor: "I'm having a hard time keeping up and want to figure out a plan. Could we talk for a few minutes?" To a counselor or therapist: "I'm feeling overwhelmed and I'm not sure where to start."
Campus counseling and what comes next
College of the Canyons Student Health & Wellness offers free short-term counseling, up to six sessions per semester, in person and online, with referrals to outside providers when more support is helpful. That is a great place to begin. If you would like a steadier, ongoing option that fits your schedule, we are here too.
Questions students ask
What if I do not know what to say? You do not need a speech. Start with how you have been feeling.
Can I try Creative Connections while I use campus counseling? Ask us. We can talk through what makes sense for you.
What does it cost? Clients 25 and under may qualify for no-cost therapy even with insurance, and we also accept several insurance plans. Text us at 661-383-2252.
If you ever feel you may be in danger, call or text 988 or call 911.
Close to home, and flexible
Our Newhall office is close to Valencia and Canyon Country, and we offer flexible daytime appointments plus video sessions that fit around class. Young people 25 and under may qualify for therapy at no cost to them. Not sure if you qualify? Text us at 661-383-2252 and we'll check with you. You can also read our therapists' bios and pick someone who feels like a good fit.
If you ever feel unsafe or in crisis, call or text 988 or go to your nearest emergency room.
College students and young adults: College & Young Adults
Find a therapist: Find Your Therapist
How to start: Steps to Start Therapy
Creative Connections, 24325 Main Street, Ste. 102, Newhall