Sania Ahmed is a staff therapist at the Eastern Michigan University Counseling and Psychological Services. Also known as CAPS, the counseling program provides university students access to therapy free of charge.
The therapy services provided include individual therapy, couples therapy, and support groups. One group the counselors are planning to host is designed for students of color. That support group is scheduled to launch in the winter. The team at CAPS also offers crisis sessions for anyone who is going through a mental health emergency. This service is included in tuition, so there is no visit charge. Ahmed outlined five things that students can do over break to relieve stress.
Physical activity
Engaging in physical activity is a significant stress reliever. Ahmed said there is a strong connection between physical and mental health. Taking care or simply moving one’s body will help elevate one's mood. She also said that exercising can be a form of release from high-pressure situations.
Spend time with people
Relationships and social support systems can be helpful in managing stress. Ahmed said that the break between semesters is the perfect time for college students to reach out to friends and family. Make plans and make it a time to connect with people.
Take a break
Ahmed recommends that students use the break as a chance to mentally separate themselves from school as much as possible. Do not focus or stress about school during that time. Instead, use the days without classes as a time to rest and rejuvenate. People should look at the parts of their lives that do not involve being a student. Use the time off to contemplate other parts of life that are important or interesting and explore those avenues.
Explore hobbies
The time between semesters is also good for diving into hobbies and interests that bring joy. Whether it is a small or large project, Ahmed said students should make time to focus on things that will take them away from their school lives. It is important to stay in contact with things that bring happiness. From reading to playing a sport, hobbies help manage stress by turning the mind and muscles away from the stress of taking classes.
Reach out
Sometimes, just talking about the pressure can offer relief. Ahmed said when stress is kept inside or bottled up, it can intensify. So, talking with a trusted friend or family member can relieve the burdens many face during the semester. Students should confide in people who are supportive, she said.
Ahmed said stepping away from responsibilities and stress can be difficult, but it's a practice that works.
“Allow yourself to have some downtime,” she said. “I would encourage students to consider the value of giving themselves a break and trying their best to be engaged and present.”
The counseling services offices are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday. The office is closed during the break. If a student needs mental health services over the weekend or during holiday breaks they can still call CAPS. They will be directed to a service called Protocol, a 24/7 crisis care line. Other resources are the National Suicide Hotline, which is 988, or text "HELLO" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. All three services provide 24/7 care.
