College Stress Support Group
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I have dealt with lots of psychological symptoms for a very long time, but lately they are getting especially intrusive. I'm finding it really hard to concentrate--or even care, which really freaks me out because that has never really happened before. I also have eating problems too.
My Grandpa and Aunt died last month within a week of each other, and i was in a play so i don't think i really dealt with it. But now i am losing it. Purging 3-5 times a day, cutting every day, and basically just watching movies all day. Worrying about homework and tests and projects too of course. But having a really hard time doing them. I guess i am just feeling lost.
Should i give myself a break? What can i do? Does anyone have any advice or been in a similar situation?
Thank you
My Grandpa and Aunt died last month within a week of each other, and i was in a play so i don't think i really dealt with it. But now i am losing it. Purging 3-5 times a day, cutting every day, and basically just watching movies all day. Worrying about homework and tests and projects too of course. But having a really hard time doing them. I guess i am just feeling lost.
Should i give myself a break? What can i do? Does anyone have any advice or been in a similar situation?
Thank you
My condolences on the loss of your family members. Experiencing and dealing with grief is not easy, especially when you had a good relationship with the deceased. My maternal grandfather died when I was in high school; he was my best friend and it still hurts me today, but eventually you heal and move on knowing that your loved ones are resting in peace. My paternal grandmother and step-grandfather died my first year in community college many years ago. A few years later, my pet rabbit died, which left me distraught because he was my best friend. I'm introverted, so I became really attached to my pet. I don't think you ever get over the death of a loved one, you just get through it. Today, my maternal gradmother is the only grandparent that I have left. She is 80-years-old and living with Alzheimer's disease. She helped raise me and we are still close and I love her very much for loving me so much in return and for putting up with me all those years that I got on her very last nerve!
My advice is that you seek counseling immediately. Purging is definitely not healthy and your health could deteriorate as a result. When I was an undergrad in college, I was severely depressed quite a bit, even suicidal at times. What helped was seeking counseling and treatment from a psychiatrist AND changing my major to something more feasible for me. What I will tell you is that you should NOT be ashamed of seeking help. There is such a stigma with mental illness that it causes more harm when people are afraid and embarrassed to admit that they need help. Your issues are your business, so you do not have to tell family and friends about seeking help or taking medication, if needed.
After I received counseling and medical treatment, my mental and physical health greatly improved. I eventually transferred to another school and I graduated with honors last year with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology. Getting help changed my life and I hope it changes yours. Most college campuses have counseling centers available which should be free of charge unless you need medication, if they have that available. If you have insurance, you are also welcomed to seek help through a therapist and/or psychiatrist under your insurance plan. I hope you take my advice and get the help you need.
I wish you well.