08/19/2025
Common Reactions to Transitioning to College (and how to cope) 📚🧠
Heading to—or back to—campus can be exciting and overwhelming. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, especially after years of remote/hybrid learning and in the midst of big societal stressors (pandemic, political polarization, gun violence, climate anxiety). You’re not alone.
What you might notice:
• Stress, anxiety, worry, or apprehensiveness
• Catastrophic thinking or hopelessness
• Strain in friendships/relationships, dip in academics, or less campus engagement
How to cope (and build resilience):
1. Normalize it. Give yourself time to adjust—feelings fluctuate during transitions.
2. Prioritize relationships. Join clubs, study groups, and communities that foster belonging. Call friends/family who “get” you.
3. Reflect & set goals. Pause, breathe, and ask: What do I hope for this year? Set 1–2 academic goals and 1–2 self-care goals. Make a short list of coping activities that work for you.
4. Catch thinking traps. Notice automatic negative thoughts (all-or-nothing, worst-case). Try cognitive restructuring:
• Name the thought → Check the evidence (for/against) → Replace with a more balanced, realistic thought → Practice.
5. Reach out. Support helps. Talk with a friend, RA, campus counseling, or a therapist.
If you’re struggling or feeling stuck, help is available. 💬
In crisis? Call/text 988 (US) for immediate support.
Life can be overwhelming and take unexpected turns. If depression, anxiety, or another mental trauma is impacting your life, our Oak Park therapists are here to help. We serve the Chicago western suburbs.
