Dear Dr. D.,

I've just transferred to MSU this semester and am having a hard time getting adjusted. I'm also dealing with some issues back home that are playing a large part in my unhappiness. I really do feel depressed and am looking for some improvement. What tips, ideas, people or things of that nature can be suggested to help me?

Transfer

Dear Transfer,

Believe me when I say that I feel for you! Sounds like you are going through some major transitions. I think it is fair to say that changes in life are inevitable and not always welcome. It is important to understand that transitions are more of an internal response to an external change that is presented to us. The process of transitioning usually entails how we perceive the change and emotionally act on it. It has been my experience that most people take the transition process for granted, but in reality very few handle it flawlessly.

First off, you should know that your situation tends to be a lot more prevalent than most would believe. In the most recent National College Health Assessment survey, nearly 20 percent of MSU students reported that they felt "being so depressed that it was hard to function" at least once during the academic year. It is not always easy to know specifically what causes a student to feel this way, but I do know that making transitions, especially when things are not healthy at home, can be extremely challenging and depressing.

Interestingly enough, when we talk to incoming parents and freshmen, we tell them most people do not leave MSU, or for that matter any college or university, because they don't have the academic skills or the capacity to do well. Most people leave because they don't feel healthy physically or mentally, they don't feel safe, or they don't make or can't find help to make the transition.

Well I am here to tell you that we, the collective MSU community, are here to help and there are things you can do.

You have done the hardest part for most people, and that is to admit to yourself that you want or need help. I am also encouraged that you are "looking for improvement," since a common symptom of depression is the belief that things can't get better. Not knowing what are the most difficult changes for you to adjust to at this point, let me first suggest some people you may want to consider consulting. If you are in the residence halls, you may want to consider speaking to your resident mentor, Racial Ethnic Student Aide, or residence hall staff. Depending on their capacity and willingness, they may be able to help you work things out or help refer you to someone who can. If we are talking about ongoing depression or general unhappiness, you may want to directly contact either the MSU Counseling Center during normal business hours at (517) 355-8270, or Olin Health Center at (517)353-4660. The MSU Counseling Center has capable staff that can also help you with dealing with things back home and just all-around adjustment and transition issues. In the community you can try The Listening Ear Crisis Intervention Center, 313 W. Grand River Ave., at (517) 337-1717, or Community Mental Health of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham Counties at (517) 346-8200.

For tips on dealing with stress and depression brought on by transitions, I turn to what MSU students have told us they do. When asked, students replied that when they want to lessen the stress or find peace when they get overwhelmed, they usually: exercise, play sports, listen to music, talk to family and friends, meditate or pray. This is not an all-inclusive list, nor does it propose to work for all people. Frankly, most students find their peace by doing something that is familiar to them, or has worked in the past. They tell me it helps them to counter stress or at least allows them a semblance of that structure, affiliation or identity they seek while working through their transition process.

I would suggest that you try and organize the parts of your life that you can — no matter how small. It could be as simple as a work and study schedule. I tell people who are going through hefty transitions to get plenty of sleep, try and exercise, write or journal when you can, find time to relax, find the positives, reward yourself and find an outlet for your feelings. Some students have even considered volunteering their services some place so they can meet other people and feel good about what they are doing and who they are.

Whatever you decide to do, just remember that there are people here who want to help and can help. Thanks for writing, and take solace in the fact that your question will help others just through the knowledge that they are not alone. Peace.

Dr. D.

Dennis Martell, Ph.D., is a coordinator of Olin Health Education and writes a weekly health column. Send questions for Dr. D. to thoma450@msu.edu.