Dear Life Section,
I’m an incoming freshman and it feels like the only stories I hear about college are of people struggling with mental health. Is there any way to avoid this, or is it just ‘a part of the college experience’?
Sincerely,
Fearful Freshy
Dear Fearful Freshy,
I hear you–between the potential stresses of classes, homesickness and a drastic change in environment, first-year college students have to be wary of their mental state. In fact, according to the 2025 Gallup-Lumina State of Higher Education survey, over half of college dropouts leave due to “emotional stress” and over 40% directly cite “personal mental health.”If anything, this highly emphasizes the importance of monitoring and taking care of our mental wellbeing, especially in times of change. Struggling with depression and anxiety shouldn’t have to be ‘a part of the college experience’–and it doesn’t have to be.
My biggest advice is to find a routine–college is full of surprises and unknowns, so having a consistent schedule will anchor you in the day. This includes your sleep and wake-up times, which students notoriously ignore (sorry to say, but four hours a night is not healthy.)
Keep an up-to-date calendar of classes and work assignments, as well as a to-do list for the week. I don’t let myself completely relax until I finish my list for the day. It makes me feel leagues better, so I cannot recommend developing that discipline enough.
This may be a tall order for people who may not have the best organization practices–and that’s okay! Any little form of it helps; even
just waking up at the same time each morning can improve mood.
If routine isn’t your style, though, here’s a simple one: find a group of friends. I know, that sounds obvious and easier said than done, but a support system is absolutely essential while away from home.
If you live with a roommate, befriend them in particular–this is someone you’ll see everyday and who will always be there whether you like it or not. They’ll be the first person to notice if you’re struggling, and can be an invaluable asset. Plus it’s just nice to be on good terms with the person you live with.
That brings me to the next part of consistency–going to class. It may sound like I’m just telling you to be a responsible student, but genuinely, going to class everyday will do more for your mental health than you might think.
When you skip class, you typically miss important content or perhaps even participatory points–and you start to fall behind. You have to play the ‘catch-up’ game. The problem here is you still have to do your regular course load in addition to it.
When you play this game too long, your workload will snowball and leave you barreling down the proverbial steep slope that feels impossible to climb. Then you end up shutting down, which can lead to more serious consequences in the long- and short-term.
One missed class here and there isn’t a big deal–and sometimes necessary–but once you’re at the point where you’re skipping ‘just because,’ you heighten your risk for spiraling. So make sure to get up for that 9 a.m.
For a more active solution, try counseling–a tried and true method, and even if you don’t have an active mental health issue, it can do wonders for preventing one. It’s not for everyone, but you don’t lose anything by trying it out. WSU offers support through Counseling and Psychological Services, with one-on-one, group and couples counseling options.
To determine what you need, they conduct an initial consultation to identify the best steps moving forward. You can schedule a same-day appointment over the phone at 509-335-4511. More information can be found on the Counseling and Psychological Services website.
For another immediately actionable activity, try connecting with animals from time to time. A 2025 WSU-conducted experiment by Alexa M. Carr and Patricia Pendry on therapy dogs and first-year student mental health determined that having access to animal visitation programs can significantly curb depression rates.
One excellent way to try this in Pullman is to check out WSU’s Pendergast Pups, a club on campus dedicated to raising service dogs. They have weekly meetings where you can get hands-on experience with puppies in training–adorable and informative! More information about the club can be found on their Instagram.
Methods like Pendergast Pups are great to provide something to look forward to. This brings me back to my main message of routine–having something you’re excited for each week can push you through difficult times and ensure you keep that light aflame.
There are thousands of strategies like these out there, so don’t be shy to experiment with what works for you. Remember, if you’re struggling, there will always be a resource out there to help you–never be afraid to ask.
College is stressful and overwhelming at times, but it’s also a time of exploration and fun! Let’s kick off this year in good spirits.
Sincerely,
The Life Section
