NMHA Offers Tips for College Students on Coping With War

National Mental Health Association
Tuesday, 25 March 2003

The war with Iraq and the domestic threat of terrorism has many college students feeling anxious and uncertain about their future. The National Mental Health Association offers tips for college students on how to deal with this difficult time.

"Students may be concerned about parents, relatives or friends in the military living overseas," said Michael Faenza, president and CEO of NMHA. "Others may worry about how they may be directly impacted by terrorism or the war abroad. No one's emotions are unaffected in this time of uncertainty."

Young adults should take stock of how they feel and take positive steps to address those feelings. Some tips to help college students cope with the stress of war follow.

• Talk about it. Talking to family, friends and coworkers about your fears will relieve stress and help you realize that others share your feelings.


• Take care of yourself. Reduce stress by getting plenty of rest, eating well and exercising regularly.


• Do things that help you relax and stick to a regular routine. Limit your exposure to news coverage on the war.


• Stay connected. Maintain contact with friends and family through visits, phone calls and e-mails.


• Do something positive. Take part in activities like making care packages or taking a First Aid class to make you feel more in control. Whether you support or oppose the war, you can write to elected officials or take part in campus activities, such as discussion groups or candlelight vigils.


• Ask for help. Feeling overwhelmed is not a sign of weakness. Talk with someone you can trust. Make use of campus or community resources, such as the counseling center or local Mental Health Association.

If symptoms persist or interfere with regular routines, students may be at risk for depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder. Contact a mental health care professional or student counseling center for additional help.

The National Mental Health Association (NMHA) has resources to help you cope, including fact sheets on coping with loss, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Visit our Website at www.nmha.org or call our Resource Center at 800-969-NMHA (6642).

The National Mental Health Association is the country's oldest and largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness. With more than 340 affiliates nationwide, NMHA works to improve the mental health of all Americans through advocacy, education, research and service.

For more information, or to contact National Mental Health Association, see their website at: www.nmha.org