The frazzled freshman year: Advice to help first-year college students thrive in new environments

The transition from high school to college and young adulthood is an exciting step, but it can be a challenge as young adults wrestle with newfound freedoms and search for their identities in new settings.

One in 10 college students say that their mental health is poor. Additionally, college students are reporting that their mental health significantly hinders their ability to focus on their studies.

“Though anxiety or depression can happen to anyone, first-year students are particularly vulnerable because they are in a new world without the structure and peer support they relied on for so long,” said Carlene Cardosi, Chief of Clinical Operations of Rosecrance Behavioral Health and Regional President of Rosecrance Illinois. “Loneliness, social isolation, and academic difficulties can become barriers to success, which makes it important for them to find a support network as soon as they can.”

If a young adult is struggling with college life, Cardosi encourages parents and trusted adults to help them gain perspective on the challenges. Young men, who tend to isolate when struggling, should be encouraged to connect with others before the year begins to establish relational foundations with faculty, resident assistants, or campus counselors. Men also should take advantage of the fresh start to try new activities to connect with peers.

Young women, who typically build connections more easily and ask for help more quickly, may struggle with self-esteem at the beginning of their college experience. They should be encouraged to be confident in themselves and to find others who will affirm them.

In addition, college students should remember the value of healthy habits such as proper eating, sleeping, physical activity, and stress reduction. Establishing these healthy routines will keep the mind and body in the best condition to handle uncomfortable situations as they arise.

Rosecrance offers a full continuum of care for mental health and substance use treatment, including college-focused programming at Connections Counseling in Madison, Wisconsin. If you or a loved one have questions about treatment or think you may need help, caring Access counselors are available at 888.928.5278.