Have you ever felt like you had the weight of the world on your shoulders? Whether it was stress, a failing grade, or personal issues bringing you down, you just felt stuck. You didn’t know what to do or who to turn to to talk things through. Maybe you have been in this situation, or maybe you have been lucky enough not to have experienced this (are you even a real person, though?) In case you didn’t know, there is an incredibly beneficial and useful resource on campus called CAPS, also known as the center for Counseling and Psychological Services. I can honestly admit that there was always that hesitant voice in my head that prevented me from even walking into the office. I wish I could turn back the clock and tell myself, hey, it’s okay to ask for help.
Most people just assume that CAPS is the last resort you turn to when things are going very, very wrong. Or the only people who go there are crazy or severely depressed–two very extreme assumptions that couldn’t be more wrong. CAPS is for anyone and everyone, yes, even you. I could try to explain what CAPS does in a few sentences, but I think their mission speaks for itself:
Counseling and Psychological Services is committed to helping students reach their full personal and academic potential as individuals. We work to support the development of the whole person: academically, personally, socially, spiritually, and physically through professional, ethical, confidential, and high quality counseling and educational services.
In other words, they are here to support you as a person. Stressed? Worried about your future? Grieving the loss of a loved one? Having a bad day? These are all valid reasons to stop by CAPS to talk to a counselor. I know you may be thinking that it may be hard to open up to a complete stranger, but that’s completely normal. What helped me get over my anxiousness was knowing that the person who was listening to me truly wanted to (1) listen and (2) offer any advice or help. Each session that you have with a counselor is strictly confidential unless you are having thoughts about harming yourself or others. If you feel more comfortable in a group setting, CAPS offers a few groups that cover a range of different topics, from reducing stress/anxiety, mindful meditation and even a creative arts group. There’s something for everyone!
So: if you’re thinking about going to CAPS, then you should go to CAPS! College will be full of ups and downs, but knowing that there are resources on campus you can turn to is incredibly helpful. If you’re thinking about going to CAPS, you can go and make an appointment in person in Dewitt (first floor) or you can call x7945 (on-campus) or 616.395.7945 (off-campus).
Thanks for reading! 🙂