Wondering how can you find the right college/university when you require academic and/or mental health support? Keep reading for our suggestions about what to consider.
1) Academic and Mental Health Support
Sometimes we can get so caught up in researching classes, we forget about things such as academic and mental health support.
With so many options out there it can sometimes feel a little overwhelming.
Now, you may be wondering what to look for…
If you aren’t sure where to get started, a few popular support systems include mentoring, counselling or tutoring.
If something seems a little unclear on the website, don’t be afraid to call the accessibilities services department or visit the campus.
2) Connect With a Therapist
Transitioning from high school to college/university comes with a lot of changes.
Everything from making new friends to staying on top of homework can cause a lot of stress and anxiety.
If you already have a therapist you like, that’s great!
Seeing them as needed throughout college can be very beneficial for your mental health.
Wondering what to do if your school is out of town?
Sit down with your current therapist and ask if they can recommend anybody closer to your school.
3) Connect With an Advisor
Do you ever have one of those days where you keep second-guessing yourself and can’t seem to make a decision?
That happens to the best of us, especially when we are under pressure.
If you find yourself contemplating your academic decisions, visiting an academic advisor at college/university can be a tremendous help!
For example, wanting to pick the right courses can be quite stressful.
Getting an academic advisors recommendations not only confirms you are on the right track but can also bring down your anxiety levels.
Plus, knowing someone is there if you need them can help give you that extra sense of security.
4) Additional considerations
Should you wish to have academic accommodations, you will require a recent psycho-educational assessment. If you had an assessment in the past, keep in mind that all assessments are valid for 2 years and you may require an updated adult one.
First year courses in college/university can have hundreds of students and be quite intimidating. You may find it less anxiety provoking to take seminar style classes with fewer students.
Keep in mind that most course work is done outside of class time. Given the increased workload, it may be beneficial to take fewer courses and make up classes in the spring/summer if you want to graduate on time.
Alter, Stuckler & Associates are a team of registered psychologists and a social worker that provide compassionate psychological care. We have provided service to individuals, couples and families from Thornhill, Markham, Vaughan and throughout the Greater Toronto Area for more than 30 years. Have a question for our team? Contact us today.
