College is an important part of a person’s life. It determines what career path you chose, and in a way, it sets the tempo for your life. However, getting through college is no easy task for many. Mental health is a very important topic that is not discussed enough on campuses. Approximately 42,773 Americans commit suicide every year, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, many of who are college students. Maintaining mental health may seem like an easy thing to do but many college students struggle to make that a top priority because of the amount of work they put in on a daily basis. They have a full course loads with homework, extracurriculars, sports, jobs, add in family issues with that and 24hours is not enough time in a day. The road to graduating and maintaining good grades and social activities is not easy for students, especially students just transitioning to college where just a few months ago they had to raise their hand to use the bathroom.

The American College Health Association National College Health Assessment found that 30 percent of college students reported feeling “so depressed that it was difficult to function.” It’s hard to ask for help when you don’t know where to start. Many students struggle to find help because they feel hopeless and that this is something every college student goes through so everything will be ok. Mental health is no joke and should be a regular occurring discussion in schools. People are falling apart mentally because schools don’t take the time to have these much-needed assemblies and talks with students so that they know that their campus has resources for them

The goal is for students to be more aware of their own well being by knowing how to get help and where from. Depression is the No. 1 reason students drop out of school. Studies show that 44 percent of American college students report having symptoms of depression. I want college students to finish school and get their degree to pursue their careers, but I want them to do it without risking their mental health. People forget that deteriorating mental health also affects your mental health. So below I have listed some tips to help maintain good mental health, especially while in college:

1.Have a good support system:

Everyone needs a support system. It could be your family, parents and close friends. I find it helpful to be able to have friends around to talk to when my parents don’t necessarily understand. Your friends can help you laugh and keep your spirits high, but they also hold you accountable for keeping your head on straight.

2.Get Some Sleep:

I can’t stress getting adequate sleep enough. It is so important to your health. There have been days when I have literally gone to sleep at 4:30am and got up at 6:15am to go to work and from work straight to class. I looked like a zombie the entire day. Anyways, if you have trouble sleeping, try turning your phone on DND, and keep your room dark & quiet.

3.Eat enough HEALTHY food:

Choose a wide variety of healthy food or snacks to keep your energy so you won’t constantly feel drained. Fruits, granola bars, yogurt, and lots of water helps my friends and I out as far as reasonably cheap but healthy snacks.

4.Be active:

Exercise is important for our mental outlook and helps ward off depression. That doesn’t necessarily mean go to the gym and go hard. It can be as simple as taking a break from work/studying and taking a walk.

5.Seek professional help:

If possible, seek professional help. You must realize that you are not alone, and it doesn’t make you “crazy” for wanting extra help. There are just some things that we can’t do on our own and that is ok. So, visit student services and ask want resources they have at your college.

Due to the alarming rates at which college students are attempting or thinking about committing suicide, I have decided to place the Suicide prevention number below. If you or a person you know needs this number PLEASE do not be afraid to use this number.

*Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255