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Mental Health Matters

Aug 04, 2023

Did you know that approximately 1 in 5 students experience a mental health condition? Just let that sink in. That means four students are struggling in a typical classroom size of 20 students. Middle school, high school, and college are supposed to be a time of making great memories and feeling empowered toward your future goals and dreams.1


Why is mental health important? From academic expectations to social interactions and personal growth, the weight of these experiences can take a toll on a student's mental well-being. It’s essential to understand that mental health is not separate from academic pursuits but a fundamental aspect that directly influences overall success, resilience, and fulfillment.


So how can you start to develop and build a healthy mental game?


Embrace a Holistic Approach: 

Education is about more than just grades. It encompasses all aspects of your life, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual well-being. By prioritizing your well-being in these areas, you develop strength, self-awareness, and coping mechanisms that can help you navigate various situations. Take time to engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Exercise, eat nourishing meals, and get adequate rest. Cultivate meaningful relationships and connections with others. Explore activities aligning with your values and beliefs to enhance your purpose and fulfillment.


Make Decisions Based on Your Values: 

As you journey through school, you'll face numerous decisions that shape your educational experience. It's important to base these choices on your core values. Consider what truly matters to you and how each decision aligns with your authentic self. When selecting classes, participating in extracurricular activities, or deciding on a career path, take a moment to reflect on how these choices reflect your values. Making decisions that align with your values empowers you to lead a life that is meaningful and true to who you are.


Build a Supportive Community: 

Surrounding yourself with a supportive community can tremendously impact your mental well-being. Seek resources within your educational environment, such as counseling services, mental health awareness programs, and peer support networks. These resources provide a safe and understanding space to express yourself and seek guidance when needed. Connect with individuals who make you feel heard, understood, and valued. Engage in open conversations about mental health to reduce stigma and create an environment of support and empathy.


Remember, your mental health matters! We all experience stress and anxiety; that's nothing to be ashamed of. What's important is developing good habits to help cope with these stressors. At Collage, we truly believe in supporting each other through our unique journeys. We're here for you, cheering for you as you prepare for a future filled with resilience, authenticity, and confidence.

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Facing the Facts: Understanding Potential Exposures to STDs

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Let's have an honest talk about something crucial but often overlooked: understanding potential exposures to sexually transmitted diseases, sometimes referred to as infections (STD/STIs). Have you ever wondered, "How many people have I really been exposed to?" It's a valid question, especially when it comes to protecting your sexual health. You might assume that since you've only had sex with a few partners, you haven't been exposed much. But the reality is more complex than that. It's easy to underestimate how quickly potential exposures can add up. Even if you've only had a few partners, each person you're exposed to has a unique sexual history. The potential for indirect exposure from your partners can quickly grow. This is a sobering thought, but it highlights the importance of knowing your status and how to prevent exposure. Here’s a tool to learn the number of possible exposures you’ve had: https://collegestats.org/interactives/sexual-exposure-calculator . So, how can you use this information to protect yourself? Recognize that the most effective method of preventing STDs entirely is to refrain from sexual activity. Additionally, being in a mutually monogamous relationship, like marriage, will ensure you won’t contract an STD. Understand that communication is key. Statistics reveal that individuals aged 15 to 24 represent 50% of all new STD cases, stressing the importance of honest discussions with your partners about sexual history and making informed decisions regarding your sexual health. 1 Get tested. The CDC recommends getting tested annually if you aren’t in a mutually monogamous relationship, meaning you or your partner have had other partner(s). 2 Many STDs don't show symptoms right away, so you might not even know you're infected. Getting tested can help you detect infections early and get the treatment you need. At Collage, we offer testing and treatment for both chlamydia and gonorrhea at no cost to you. We want to do what we can to equip you to make informed decisions because together, we can reduce the spread of sexually transmitted diseases and live healthier lives.

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