Starting the School Year Strong: Mental Health Tips for College Students

The start of a new school year brings a mix of emotions. Excitement about a fresh start often comes with stress about academics, social life, and the many transitions that fall onto your plate all at once. Whether you’re heading to college for the first time, returning after summer break, or you are a parent supporting your child through these changes, this season can feel overwhelming.

At A Better Life Therapy, we know that the transition from summer to fall is more than just buying notebooks and settling into new routines…it’s also about managing emotions, expectations, and self-care in a sustainable way while engaging in your identity as a student at whichever school you go to.

Why Fall Transitions Can Feel Heavy

New responsibilities. Students often juggle coursework, jobs, extracurriculars, and relationships. Parents balance schedules, carpools, and shifting family dynamics.
Uncertainty and pressure. Questions about grades, career choices, or friendships can trigger anxiety or self-doubt.
Seasonal shifts. Shorter days and cooler weather can impact mood and energy levels, making it harder to stay motivated.
Identity shifts. Living away from caregivers, often for the first time, can bring about questions about who one really is apart from their family. It might also bring up questions about how one want to relate to their family as an adult and how their family has impacted them and their relationships.

It’s important to recognize that stress during this time isn’t a personal failin. In fact, it’s a normal human response to change.

Small Shifts That Can Make a Big Difference

Prioritize rest. Late nights add up quickly in terms of mood and concentration. Build a sleep routine that actually supports you.
Find your grounding practices. Whether it’s journaling, a morning walk, or a few minutes of meditation, grounding rituals help you stay steady amidst the chaos.
Set realistic goals. Instead of overloading your to-do list, choose two or three priorities for the week.
Reach for support. Talking with a therapist can provide space to process stress, build coping strategies, and find clarity in decision-making.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

Our team of therapists is here to support students, parents, and young adults as you navigate the unique challenges of the school year. We provide individual therapy, couples counseling, and group support across South Jersey and the greater Philadelphia area.

We proudly serve students and families connected to:

Stockton University (near our Galloway office)
Temple University, Drexel University, and the University of Pennsylvania (near our Philadelphia offices)
Villanova University, Haverford College, and Bryn Mawr College (near our Ardmore office)
Lehigh University and surrounding colleges (near our Lehigh Valley office)

No matter which campus or community you call home, we’re here to help you create balance as you move into the fall.

✨ Ready to feel supported this semester?
Contact us today to schedule a session at the office most convenient for you or ask about online therapy options if you’re balancing a busy student schedule.

A BETTER LIFE THERAPY

A Better Life Therapy was founded in 2013 with a passion for providing warm, compassionate services to individuals and families in Pennsylvania. Our team specializes in relationship health as well as individual mental health. Our team has expertise in areas like anxiety, grief, depression, pregnancy related issues, sexual issues, substance use and trauma.