If you are a college student, you may have considered taking advantage of online therapy resources. In the age of technology, one of the many benefits that come with this is more accessible and versatile mental health resources. 

Especially when it comes to college students, online therapy resources can be incredibly helpful for navigating this unique chapter of life. Whether you are having some mental health concerns or simply want to talk to somebody, online therapy may be the right fit for you.

Keep reading to find out why college students should consider online therapy. 

The Stigma Around College Student Mental Health 

Even though mental health has become a household topic and is more widely discussed than ever before, there is still a significant stigma around it. Especially when it comes to college students, it can be difficult to get help without feeling societal pressure or shame.  

This stigma is part of the reason why there is still a mental health crisis among college students and why such a high percentage of college students don’t get the help that they need.   

One example of this problem is how some mental health conditions are more widely accepted, while others are still greatly stigmatized. For instance, a large portion of young people will experience depression or anxiety during their academic journey, but still feel too ashamed to talk about it. 

Breaking the stigma around mental health is not just about creating a more open conversation; it is about saving lives. College students can especially feel isolated during this journey as they deal with college pressure, bullying, homesickness, and excessive workloads. 

Benefits of Online Therapy For College Students

If you are unsure about whether or not you want to go to therapy, you may feel more comfortable with online therapy. With so many online resources available for college students, it makes sense that mental health would also take this form.

Here are some reasons why online therapy is beneficial for college students, no matter your mental health challenges or circumstances. 

Accessibility

Therapy has always been considered a luxury and not something available to just anyone. However, with online therapy resources now available, this is no longer the reality. Now, anyone can get the therapy they need, no matter where they live, their circumstances, or their finances. 

Especially for college students who are most likely away from home and living on a campus, accessibility is a huge benefit. You don’t have to find a therapist locally, and you don’t have to find a way to get to your in-person appointments. 

Additionally, online therapy is more accessible for college students who may have physical disabilities or limitations, as well as for people who may have significant mental health issues, such as anxiety. 

Flexibility

College life is incredibly busy, and you most likely don’t have a lot of free time for therapy. Online therapy resources offer more flexibility, especially when it comes to finding appointment times that work with your schedule. 

You can schedule therapy appointments in between classes and have greater flexibility when it comes to rescheduling if something comes up. 

Cost

One of the reasons why therapy has always been considered a luxury is the cost. High-quality therapists often charge quite a lot per appointment, and not everybody has insurance that covers these expenses. Even if you have insurance that covers therapy, you are most likely limited in the number of appointments you can have.

Online therapy is generally considered to be more affordable when it comes to the cost of each appointment. It also reduces related expenses, such as taking time off work, paying for gas, or paying for an Uber.

Options

Before online therapy, the only option you had was finding a local therapist. Depending on where you live, this can be very difficult, especially if you want to tackle specific mental health concerns. 

A benefit of online therapy for college students is that you have an endless amount of options when it comes to therapists. This allows you to find the therapist that you connect with and who specializes in the areas that you want to focus on. 

Who Should Consider Online Therapy?

Teletherapy is a wonderful resource to have no matter your mental health concerns. If you are a college student, you may find that online therapy provides just what you are looking for as you are navigating your academic journey. 

Of course, therapy is beneficial for those with specific mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety. But you don’t necessarily have to have any specific reason to start online therapy, as it can benefit anyone. For instance, a therapist can help you stay motivated during college as well as act as a confidant so that you can voice any concerns or fears you may have about your future. 

If you are experiencing any of these emotions or symptoms, this could be a sign that you should try online therapy for yourself: 

• Burn out 

• Anxiety or depression 

• Homesickness 

• A lack of motivation 

• Fear about the future 

• Loneliness 

• Difficulty doing everyday tasks 

• Difficulty sleeping

College Self-Care Tips 

Now that you know just what online therapy resources offer for college students, what are some additional things you can do to support your mental health? All college students need to focus on their mental health as college can come with many ups and downs. Practicing self-care during this time will be essential for creating a healthy emotional baseline and taking care of your overall well-being. 

Here are a few steps you can take to support your teen and create a safe discussion around mental health. 

Stay Active

Exercise is about so much more than simply burning calories; it is about maintaining your physical and mental health. Physical exercise releases feel-good chemicals in your brain, which can improve your mental health on many different levels. Many people find that regular activity helps reduce depression, anxiety, and overall stress.

Especially in college, when most students live a relatively sedentary lifestyle, incorporating activity into your daily routine is essential. You can do this by: 

• Taking walks 

• Going biking 

• Walking instead of driving 

• Running 

• Going to the gym 

• Attending exercise classes 

Prioritize Your Physical Health  

Aside from staying active, you also need to focus on your physical health on a broader scale. After all, your physical and mental health are closely tied together and if one is neglected, the other will suffer.

Try to eat three healthy meals a day and make sure you are getting an adequate amount of sleep every single night. You should also try to avoid anything that you know negatively impacts you physically, such as drinking too much coffee, drinking alcohol, smoking, etc. 

Have Free Time

Even though college is notoriously busy, college students still need to try to find time to relax. Especially for young adults, a healthy mind requires a delicate balance of activity and rest.

You should try to create a schedule that allows you to have at least one hour of free time every day. You also need to have downtime throughout the day that allows you to disconnect mentally and rest even if it’s just for five or 10 minutes.

Stay Connected

If you are struggling mentally in any way, you need to ask for help. Stay connected to the college community, and your loved ones will be essential for mitigating some of the more negative aspects of college life. 

For some, this can be very isolating and stressful and there shouldn’t be any shame in acknowledging these feelings. Doing this through online therapy is incredibly beneficial but you should also reach out to those around you for additional support. 

There are many mental health program options available, including adolescent mental health programs and telehealth options that provide flexibility and teen-specific treatment. 

At Harmony Bay, we believe it’s never too late to begin your healing journey, so reach out to us today to get started!