Mental Health for College Students

At Ross Psychology Group, we understand the unique challenges that college students face. From academic pressures and social changes to navigating new levels of independence, college life can be both exciting and overwhelming. Our therapists are experienced in helping college students manage the emotional, psychological, and academic stressors they may encounter, offering a supportive space to process these experiences and develop healthy coping strategies. We have extensive experience working with student at Northwestern University, DePaul University, Oakton Community College, and Loyola University.

Common Mental Health Challenges for College Students

College students often experience a range of mental health concerns that can affect their well-being and academic performance, including:

  • Academic Stress: Pressure to succeed in coursework, exams, and career planning.

  • Anxiety and Depression: Feelings of worry, panic, or sadness that may interfere with daily life and schoolwork.

  • Social Anxiety: Struggles with social interactions, fear of judgment, or difficulty forming relationships.

  • Homesickness and Loneliness: Missing home, family, or previous support systems, especially for students living away for the first time.

  • Adjustment Issues: Difficulty adapting to new environments, responsibilities, and expectations.

  • High expectations/Perfectionism: Feeling as though one’s work needs to meet certain standards of performance despite significant difficulty finding balance in other areas of life.

  • Identity and Self-Esteem: Exploring one’s identity, values, and self-worth during this transformative stage of life.

How We Help College Students

Our therapists are committed to providing therapy that addresses the specific needs of college and graduate students. We offer support in areas such as:

  • Stress Management: Helping students develop practical tools for managing academic and life stressors, such as time management, relaxation techniques, and balancing responsibilities.

  • Anxiety and Depression Treatment: Using evidence-based therapies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

  • Life Transitions: Assisting students in adjusting to new environments, independence, and the demands of college life.

  • Building Self-Esteem: Supporting students in developing a strong sense of self-worth and confidence as they navigate their college years.

  • Relationship and Social Skills: Offering guidance on forming healthy relationships and coping with social anxiety, peer pressure, and conflict resolution.