In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, here’s your friendly reminder that it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. It took me several years to process the emotions that were weighing me down because asking for help made me feel weak. When my mental health began to affect my academics, relationships, and view on life, I knew I had to do something.
Taking the first step toward healing isn’t always easy. But I found that talking to a therapist helped strengthen my ability to regulate my feelings and respond to situations without spiraling. If you’re looking to start your healing journey, here are some tips and resources available to you as a UC San Diego student to help ease the process.
It’s okay to not be okay
Mental health talk is considered taboo in most cultures, including mine. I grew up in environments where I didn’t feel safe to share my struggles; even worse, when I did speak up, I was told that my feelings were just a phase.
Take time to acknowledge your fears and feelings without judgment. Journaling has helped me review what events trigger negative emotions and raise the questions I can’t say out loud. Set boundaries and avoid spaces that dismiss your feelings — don’t let social stigma hold you back! Your struggles don’t define you, and it’s crucial to know that getting help does not mean you are weak; it signifies your resilience. Realizing that it’s okay to not be okay can make reaching out to a therapist less scary.
The first thing I did was reach out to UCSD’s Counseling and Psychological Services. CAPS was a great option since it fulfilled my need to have a professional validate my feelings and guided me in building a plan for emotional regulation. Being consistent with my sessions allowed me to form a trusting relationship with my therapist, which made the healing journey less frightening. Dedicating a certain day and time of the week to therapy sessions encouraged me to prioritize my mental well-being.
Where to reach out on campus
In moments of distress and isolation, it’s easy to think that no one cares, but that is not the case. As a UCSD student, there are many mental health resources available to you through your student fees:
CAPS: CAPS offers a multitude of resources, like talk therapy sessions and recovery programs, that address your specific mental and emotional needs. To request a first-time appointment, you can either call (858) 534-3755 or go to its central office at Galbraith Hall 190.
Triton CORE: For emergency situations that require immediate intervention, Triton CORE is an alternative to the University of California Police Department. Triton CORE is a mobile team of licensed professionals who travel to your location on campus, guide you through your emergency, and create safety plans with you. If you are experiencing a crisis, call (858) 534-4357 to request the Triton CORE team.
Student Health Services: SHS’ behavioral health team has social workers who can connect you to outside community resources, medical specialists, and medical providers, as well as assist you in accessing basic needs. To schedule an appointment, call (858) 534-557.
RISE: RISE workshops are a great way to take a mental break, get physical, and form new connections. During this quarter, you can join a relaxing SunRISE Yoga Session every Monday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. until Week 10. Space fills up quickly, so make sure to preregister and remember to bring a yoga mat and towel! RISE also offers sleep reset workshops and mindfulness studios, which are great opportunities to reconnect with yourself.
Choosing the right care for your needs
There are many ways to receive mental health care, and there is something for everyone. Depending on your level of comfort and your needs, find what best works for you.
If you’re looking to focus on an issue in an intimate setting, a one-on-one appointment with a licensed psychologist or behavioral therapist helps with developing your personalized treatment plan. These practitioners use psychotherapy, a form of treatment where you discuss ways to address mental health struggles and emotional management with a licensed professional.
If relating to others and speaking in a group feels better for you, group therapy can offer that community support. If you’re unable or don’t want to physically attend appointments, telehealth therapy is also a great option to receive care in a space you feel safe in.
Let’s Talk, a twice-quarterly CAPS workshop, connects you with UCSD mental health professionals who informally answer quick wellness questions.
It’s more than just talk
Speaking with a professional and developing strategies to support your mental health is just part of the journey. The real work lies in applying what you have learned and maintaining it in your approach to life, even outside of talk therapy.
For me, meditating every day does the trick. By slowing down my thoughts and observing any lingering feelings that might need to be addressed with a professional, meditating allows me to check in with myself, hold myself accountable for my actions, and give myself grace during difficult situations. Seeking mental wellness is a lifelong commitment.
Therapy is showing up for your well-being in ways you haven’t been able to on your own. Everyone’s recovery is different, and it’s okay to seek help again; do what feels best for you.
National Crisis Hotline: Call or text 988.
