University is often described as the best time of your life, but let’s be honest; It can also be very overwhelming, isolating and downright stressful. Balancing academics, extracurriculars, part-time jobs, and a social life, it’s no surprise that many students struggle to juggle it all.

Every college student should take advantage of counseling services on campus. These aren’t just for people in crisis; They are a lifeline for anyone navigating the ups and downs of this unique chapter of life.

Let’s start with the obvious, college is really hard, especially for a freshman.

It is very difficult to get used to change, especially since I live in a city-like place where the streets are congested and thousands of people are squeezed together. The transition from that to the college campus was definitely difficult.

Whether you’re studying for exams, feeling homesick, or dealing with relationship drama, the emotional toll can quickly mount.

There’s a truth we don’t say enough: Everyone struggles sometimes. However, many students avoid counseling because they feel it is only for “serious problems” or because they are embarrassed. I thought so too, until I tried it.

Seeing a counselor gave me a new perspective on things I thought I would have to face alone. The stigma around mental health is slowly disappearing, but we need to normalize it even more. Asking for help is definitely not a weakness; It is one of the smartest and most powerful things you can do for yourself.

When you’re mentally overwhelmed, it’s nearly impossible to focus in class or get through assignments. Advising can be a game changer for your academic performance. I learned strategies for managing stress and staying organized that made me more productive and less anxious. So why wouldn’t you want to give yourself the tools to handle this problem more effectively?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to have a crisis before seeing a counselor. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can put your mind at ease. Talking to someone can prevent small problems from becoming bigger. Whether it’s dealing with difficult decisions or learning how to set boundaries with friends, counseling is a proactive way to take care of yourself.

I’m so glad I decided to take the leap and go to counseling at Quinnipiac. Every counselor I spoke with gave me life-changing advice and reassurance that my voice and that of every student were heard. At a university with so many opportunities and involvement, it’s important to take a mental break and sit down and talk to someone sometimes.

Every student can benefit from counseling services. This isn’t about being “broken” or needing to be “fixed.” It’s about taking control of your mental health and learning about yourself. Even if you are not active in going to counseling and only go occasionally, it can still help you.

If you haven’t tried it yet, give it a try. You’ll be surprised how much it helps.