When Counseling May Be Needed

Self-Awareness/Personal Development/Major or Career Choice 

• Uncertain about future plans
• Questions about sexual orientation 
• Desire a deeper understanding of self 
• Unclear about identity and self concept 
• Lack of alternatives, especially when failing 
• Indecision about interests, abilities, or values

Problems with Academic Performance 

• Procrastination 
• Test or speech anxiety 
• Worry or confusion over low performance
• Poor academic performance and preparation, especially if such behavior represents a change from previous functioning

Relationship Issues

• Intimacy Concerns
• Break-up or change in relationship status
• Loss or illness of a family member or close friend
• Conflict with roommate, partner, friend or family member
• Loneliness or discomfort interacting with others; feeling different than others

Marked Change in Behavior

• Anxiety
• Sudden withdrawal from people
• Noticeable change in appetite or sleep
• Fatigue, difficulty concentrating/maintaining focus
• Hyperactivity, chronic irritability, or excessive anxiety
• Changes in appearance, including weight an hygiene
• Confusion, disorientation, or bizarre thoughts or behavior
• Extreme mood changes or excessive, inappropriate display of emotion

Past or Current Trauma

• Partner abuse
• Rape or sexual assault
• Childhood abuse (physical, sexual, verbal, emotional)

Harmful Statements or Behaviors

• Extreme risk-taking behavior
• Indications of persistent or prolonged unhappiness
• Overt references to suicide or statements of helplessness or hopelessness

Excessive Behavior

• Sex
• Eating
• Excessive use of alcohol or other drugs
• Impaired daily functioning because of substance use (e.g. not attending class, not going to work)

This list outlines behavioral changes or stressful events in students’ lives which may warrant counseling. For information about specific types of emotional concerns or psychological problems please contact the Counseling Center for consultation at 717-477-1481.