Mental health in the fall semester

By Payton Carter | Staff Writer

Mental health is one of the biggest and most talked about aspects when it comes to college students. 

The fall semester is an especially turbulent time for mental health in college. The start of the new year can be a major adjustment, especially for freshman and sophomore students.  

“It can definitely be tough in the fall. I see it a lot with younger students who haven’t been here that long. I can usually tell who’s going to last and who isn’t,”  said Jackson Lovett, a junior biology major at Augusta University.  

Though burnout and mental health struggles in college can be common among younger students, it is not exclusive to just them but to students of all levels. There are ways students combat this.  

“Balance is key to me when it comes to balancing mental health and college,” said David-Joesph Kunde, a sophomore animation major at Augusta University.  

“I think that’s really the key to making it through college in general. Balance is everything,” added Kunde.  

One thing that can be key to achieving a balance between mental health and college is having a good support system.  

“Having others around who encourage and provide belongingness can go a long way in an environment such as college. A good support system is incredibly important,” said Claire Gardener, a licensed therapist based in Augusta, Georgia.  

“It is also important to practice self-care. Time for yourself is needed,” Gardner added.  

Starting an all-new year in college can overwhelming. It is important for students to look after their mental health and seek help from available resources if needed. 

 Contact Payton Carter at paycarter@augusta.edu

Photo: Noah Hudson