4 answers
Kensley
Student
Parksville, SC
9
Questions
Updated
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If I feel overwhelmed, who or where do I go for help and support? #fall25
I will be attending college as a freshman in the Fall of 2026. I tend to get overwhelmed with new places, studies, peer pressure, or at times everyday life. I wanted to know if colleges have support groups or someone to help during these times. I prefer my family not to know of my concerns so they will not have to worry or be burden. #fall25
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4 answers
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Kensley !
One way to look at your concern is that prevention may be helpful. College is not like High School and you will find that there are many supports on campus, including new friends that you make.
It may be helpful for you to register for an orientation of the college and tour the campus. That way you would become familiar with some of the buildings and areas. This way some of the campus will be familiar to you when you start. College is not like high school as far as peer pressure. I didn't see any of that when I was in college. You may find that you have a new found freedom to be yourself and stick with your values, developing a new independence.
To pace yourself with studies, try taking only four courses in your first semester, three Required General Education courses and one course in your Major. The courses are scheduled to be attended each week either on Monday Wednesday and Friday or Tuesday and Thursday. Taking four courses will give you a smooth pace as you begin to adjust to the campus and the college life. You can build on that for future semesters.
Most colleges do have emotional support services to help students manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. These are usually on campus counseling centers, peer support programs, crisis intervention services, and specialized programs like Partial Hospitalization Programs and Intensive Outpatient Programs for students with moderate to severe symptoms. Check to see if the college you will attend offers these on their campus. Every college is different. Also ask your college staff if they participate with TimelyCare Campus Emotional Emergency Program, which offers 24/7 support during crises like natural disasters or acts of violence. Additionally, many campuses promote emotional well being through wellness workshops, mindfulness programs, and mental health awareness events. You just have to find out what your particular college offers.
Take it slow for your first semester. Be conscious of your triggers and avoid the things that bring those stressors about. Give yourself a lot of free time and try not to commit to too much during your first semester. College is a lot better than high school in a lot of ways and the exciting part is that you get to make many new self-discoveries and grow intellectually, socially and personally. You most likely will look back on your college days as one of the most important times of your life because of the personal growth it provides.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
One way to look at your concern is that prevention may be helpful. College is not like High School and you will find that there are many supports on campus, including new friends that you make.
It may be helpful for you to register for an orientation of the college and tour the campus. That way you would become familiar with some of the buildings and areas. This way some of the campus will be familiar to you when you start. College is not like high school as far as peer pressure. I didn't see any of that when I was in college. You may find that you have a new found freedom to be yourself and stick with your values, developing a new independence.
To pace yourself with studies, try taking only four courses in your first semester, three Required General Education courses and one course in your Major. The courses are scheduled to be attended each week either on Monday Wednesday and Friday or Tuesday and Thursday. Taking four courses will give you a smooth pace as you begin to adjust to the campus and the college life. You can build on that for future semesters.
Most colleges do have emotional support services to help students manage stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. These are usually on campus counseling centers, peer support programs, crisis intervention services, and specialized programs like Partial Hospitalization Programs and Intensive Outpatient Programs for students with moderate to severe symptoms. Check to see if the college you will attend offers these on their campus. Every college is different. Also ask your college staff if they participate with TimelyCare Campus Emotional Emergency Program, which offers 24/7 support during crises like natural disasters or acts of violence. Additionally, many campuses promote emotional well being through wellness workshops, mindfulness programs, and mental health awareness events. You just have to find out what your particular college offers.
Take it slow for your first semester. Be conscious of your triggers and avoid the things that bring those stressors about. Give yourself a lot of free time and try not to commit to too much during your first semester. College is a lot better than high school in a lot of ways and the exciting part is that you get to make many new self-discoveries and grow intellectually, socially and personally. You most likely will look back on your college days as one of the most important times of your life because of the personal growth it provides.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Thank you for taking the time to answer my question. Your advice is truly appreciated!
Kensley
You are very welcome for the advice, Kensley !
Michelle M.
Patricia Okey-Ohuonu
Teaching and counselling
8
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Patricia’s Answer
Moving from a familiar environment to a completely new place could be overwhelming.
However, it’s important to remember that growth never happens in a static position. To experience extraordinary progress, you must be willing to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges that move you closer to your purpose.
Whenever you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek support. You can speak with a professional counselor, a trained social worker, a trusted friend, or a religious leader who can offer guidance and encouragement.
You may also explore reputable online counseling platforms for additional support.
By reaching out and staying open for help, you set yourself up for a long-term happiness and fulfillment.
Best regards.
However, it’s important to remember that growth never happens in a static position. To experience extraordinary progress, you must be willing to step out of your comfort zone and embrace new challenges that move you closer to your purpose.
Whenever you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek support. You can speak with a professional counselor, a trained social worker, a trusted friend, or a religious leader who can offer guidance and encouragement.
You may also explore reputable online counseling platforms for additional support.
By reaching out and staying open for help, you set yourself up for a long-term happiness and fulfillment.
Best regards.
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer my question. I truly appreciate it!!
Kensley
Wong Loke Yuen
Head of Programme cum Senior Lecturer
645
Answers
Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Updated
Wong’s Answer
Hi Kensley. One of the first places to look is your college's counseling center or student wellness office. Nearly all colleges have mental health professionals who offer confidential counseling sessions. You can talk with them about stress, anxiety, loneliness, academic pressure, or anything else on your mind. Many students schedule regular sessions during stressful semesters, and counseling can help you learn coping strategies, time-management skills, and ways to navigate big transitions.
Many campuses also offer support groups or workshops for students. These might focus on managing stress, coping with anxiety, or adjusting to college life. In these groups, you meet other students who feel the same way. It can help you feel less alone and give you new ideas for handling tough moments.
Your college may also have resident advisors or peer mentors, usually upper-class students trained to support freshmen. They can listen, help you find resources, and guide you through normal challenges of adjusting to college. While they are not therapists, they understand campus life firsthand and can be a comforting, approachable option when you just need someone to talk to.
If schoolwork becomes overwhelming, you can go to your academic advisor or a student success center. They can help you plan your schedule, manage your time better, and find tutoring if you need it. Sometimes stress comes from classes, so getting academic help early can make a big difference. Hope this helps and wish you all the best.
Many campuses also offer support groups or workshops for students. These might focus on managing stress, coping with anxiety, or adjusting to college life. In these groups, you meet other students who feel the same way. It can help you feel less alone and give you new ideas for handling tough moments.
Your college may also have resident advisors or peer mentors, usually upper-class students trained to support freshmen. They can listen, help you find resources, and guide you through normal challenges of adjusting to college. While they are not therapists, they understand campus life firsthand and can be a comforting, approachable option when you just need someone to talk to.
If schoolwork becomes overwhelming, you can go to your academic advisor or a student success center. They can help you plan your schedule, manage your time better, and find tutoring if you need it. Sometimes stress comes from classes, so getting academic help early can make a big difference. Hope this helps and wish you all the best.
I'm excited to put your great advice to good use!
Kensley
You're very welcome
Wong Loke Yuen
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1185
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello again, Kensley!
It makes complete sense that you are planning ahead for support. College is exciting, but it can also be challenging, particularly when everything is new at once. Thankfully, practically every college has a comprehensive ecosystem of services that are specifically tailored to your needs, and you can use them in secret without engaging your family.
The majority of universities include academic advice, peer support groups, free counseling services, mental health check-ins, and first-year success coaches that assist you in adjusting both academically and emotionally. Additionally, many campuses include student-led clubs, health initiatives, and identity-based support centers where you can have open conversations with others who "get it."
Additionally, resident assistants (RAs) and student wellness teams are trained to support you without passing judgment if social pressure or transitions become difficult. Colleges are designed to support students during these times, so you won't have to handle everything alone. Reaching out early is a sign of strength rather than a burden. By asking this now, you're already preparing yourself for a better, more grounded beginning.
Best wishes!
It makes complete sense that you are planning ahead for support. College is exciting, but it can also be challenging, particularly when everything is new at once. Thankfully, practically every college has a comprehensive ecosystem of services that are specifically tailored to your needs, and you can use them in secret without engaging your family.
The majority of universities include academic advice, peer support groups, free counseling services, mental health check-ins, and first-year success coaches that assist you in adjusting both academically and emotionally. Additionally, many campuses include student-led clubs, health initiatives, and identity-based support centers where you can have open conversations with others who "get it."
Additionally, resident assistants (RAs) and student wellness teams are trained to support you without passing judgment if social pressure or transitions become difficult. Colleges are designed to support students during these times, so you won't have to handle everything alone. Reaching out early is a sign of strength rather than a burden. By asking this now, you're already preparing yourself for a better, more grounded beginning.
Best wishes!