Starting college is an exciting time of change, but along with that change can come stress and new challenges. In a recent episode of Countdown2College, Gage spoke with Sally Wiarda, assistant director of counseling at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, who works closely with college students and understands their challenges. Sally said starting college is a major life transition, and it’s normal for students to need support. The good news is that most colleges offer a variety of mental health resources to help students manage stress and stay healthy.
What mental health resources are available in college?
Most colleges offer mental health support through a counseling center, often called Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), where students can meet with trained counselors to discuss challenges they’re facing. Some campuses offer additional support through student health centers, including psychological evaluations, medication management, and peer-led programs. These services help make it easier for students to get support when they need it.
What mental health challenges do college students face?
Many students seek support as they adjust to the major transition of starting college. For first-year students especially, this can be one of the biggest life changes they have experienced.
Some common challenges include:
- Homesickness, especially during the first semester.
- Anxiety, including social anxiety and meeting new people.
- Depression or feelings of loneliness.
- Motivation struggles and academic burnout.
Sally emphasized that these experiences are common among college students. Counseling centers are designed to help students work through these challenges and build healthy strategies to manage stress.
Do students have to pay for counseling?
Costs vary by school, but many colleges include counseling services in student fees.At UNK, for example, students taking at least one on-campus credit hour can access counseling services at no additional cost. Other colleges may offer a certain number of free sessions each semester. The goal is to ensure students can access support without worrying about affordability.
How do colleges support students during stressful times?
During stressful times like finals week, many campuses offer extra support to help students. Schools may host events like De-Stress Fests or offer services like therapy dogs, relaxation spaces, or free meals. Counseling centers may also expand appointment availability to provide additional support.
What can students do to support their mental health?
Sally recommends that students focus on self-care and balance, especially during busy semesters. While getting involved on campus is great, taking on too many commitments can lead to burnout. Scheduling time each week for activities like going for a walk, spending time with friends, or simply taking a break from studying can help students recharge and maintain healthy routines.
Final Advice
Sally encourages students to learn about the mental health resources available on their campus and reach out for help if they need it. Even if they never use these services themselves, knowing they exist can help them support a friend who may be struggling. College is a big transition, but students don’t have to navigate it alone.
March 17, 2026 · Season 2 · Episode 33
Finding Mental Health Support on Campus
By Sally Wiarda & Gage
College can be exciting, but it can also come with stress, homesickness, and big transitions. 😵💫 Gage talks with Sally Wiarda, Assistant Director of Counseling at the University of Nebraska–Kearney, about the mental health resources available on campus, how students can access counseling, and why reaching out for support can make a big difference during your college experience. More college help 👉 https://EducationQuest.org