[Alyssa]

I have used both in person and online therapy options and I like both. I personally do like in person therapy more because I have an easier time connecting with my therapist and do not have to worry about my environment. When I go to in-person therapy I can ensure that I am in a safe and supportive environment. One of the worries I had with online therapy was making sure that I can be alone for my appointment. I appreciate the accessibility with online therapy!

[Alyssa]

I think youre correct and that trying your best to have a positive outlook is helpful. When I am stressed or feel confused with life I always try to think of the good with the position I am in. When I am tired or doing school work I always remind myself that I am fortunate and have the privilege to do to school.

[Alyssa]

I like this question and I believe it is accurate in the world we live in. It reminds of that depression cant hit a moving target. I think intentional mindfulness can help us stay aware in a world where something is always happening.

[Alyssa]

I think that confiding in your siblings or close friends can be useful during times you are stressed. Personally, when I am stressed I like to feel heard and have the ability to rant instead of seeking advice. Because of this, I choose to talk to my friends more instead of family who feel the need to fix it.

[Alyssa]

Making sure to take the time to incorporate self-care strategies before you are feeling stressed is important. I make sure that I incorporate scheduled time for self-care that way I can unsure I do not forget about it.

[Alyssa]

I think as time progresses we will see AI be able to be useful in emergency situations or in low crises events. If people are wondering what some self-care strategies are for college students it can be useful. I hope in the future that if someone is in a crisis and need immediate help, AI can be useful.

[Alyssa]

I like it too! I am excited to see when MentalService adds and how it will expand!

[Alyssa]

When I was dealing with extreme anxiety I decided to start keeping mints and gum on me. If I started feeling the symptoms of anxiety I would just eat a couple of mints or chew flavored gum to take my mind off of it. Listening to music helps and also paying more attention to your surroundings will realign your focus. some people will begin to pinch or scratch themselves and it is important to stay away from these behaviors. Things like this are still considered self-injurious behaviors, so watch out for this.

[Alyssa]

So sorry you’re nervous about college, I was too when I was a freshman. Going to a new school is scary! If you have a roommate I would encourage being friends with them and doing activities with them. For example get food with them or get to know the school. Joining clubs that you’re interested in is a great way to meet new people. You will meet people in your class too, I found a great group of friends from my classes and started out as a study group. You need to put yourself out there, its difficult but you can do it.

[Alyssa]

Ensuring that you’re taking care of yourself is key. Using leave days or taking a mental health day to practice self care will be helpful. During your time off I would say it is important to fully relax instead of trying to be productive on your day off. Additionally, try to make a plan regarding how you can avoid mental fatigue so it occurs less often.

[Alyssa]

some of my favorite selfcare activities include playing sports, coloring, listening to music, journaling and taking a walk. I try not to be on my phone a lot because I will use it as a distraction. Additionally, I try not to do activities that can make me more stress and doesn’t involve me doing something ‘right’.

[Alyssa]

I do not have a child and I believe that therapy should be viewed as a tools instead of a last resort. Some things go beyond parenting strategies, so using therapy as a tool to potentially diagnose something or discuss things that you may struggle with is needed. I believe that it is important to use therapy as a tool especially when you do not have the education or knowledge to deal with it, such as trauma or intellectual difficulties.

[Alyssa]

I love psychology, and as a psych major I appreciate that there is always something new that I am interested in. I love abnormal psychology especially learning more about schizophrenia. The most interesting concept I believe I have learned about cross cultural training and understanding how different countries or cultures deal with mental health disorders. Symptoms, diagnoses, and stigma change depending on an individuals culture and it is important to understand that going into therapy.

[Alyssa]

I agree, I love to go on a walks when I am feeling overwhelmed or just need a brain break. It’s always a nice touch when I go on a walk and get to see a pretty sunset.

[Alyssa]

My first therapy session was very validating and freeing. We spent a lot of time getting to know me and discussing what brought me to therapy. I think it is important for a therapist to explain how therapy works, especially with confidentiality and how to ensure the safety of the patient. I felt optimisitc about going back for future sessions