Mental Health Issues Common problems that interfere with academic success UTPA Counseling and Psychological Services, UC

Depression Indicators: –Isolated and withdrawn –Crying or tearfulness –Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, hopelessness –Feelings of guilt –Lack of self-confidence –Loss of interest in future activities –Fatigue and lack of energy –Change in eating habits –Change in sleeping habits –Persistent physical complaints –Loss of concentration –Thoughts of suicide or attempts

Suicide Some motivations: –Wanting an escape –Cry for help –Wanting punishment –Wanting to end a conflict perceived as unreasonable –Responding to a voice, or “command hallucination”

Anxiety Excessive anxiety and worry occurring more days than not The person finds it difficult to control the worry Possible changes in sleeping patterns Feeling restless or “on edge” Being easily tired Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank May be more irritable than normal

ADHD Making careless mistakes in work Failing to give close attention to details Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks Trouble organizing schedules or activities Forgetful in daily activities Often losing things necessary for tasks

Substance Abuse Abrupt change in work or school attendance or discipline Sudden decline in quality of work or grades Change in attitude or irritability Deterioration of appearance and grooming Association with known substance abusers Borrowing money or stealing Secretive Wearing sunglasses or long- sleeved shirts at inappropriate times

Eating Disorders Anorexia Nervosa –Body weight less than 85% of what is minimally normal –Intense fear of gaining weight –Distorted thinking about body and weight Bulimia –Binge-eating and then vomiting, using laxatives, diuretics, enemas, fasting, or excessive exercise at least 2xwk for >3mos Compulsive Overeating

Relationship Issues Grief or loss of a relationship Expectations of a healthy relationship Abuse and codependency Communication skills Couples counseling

Family Conflict Impaired communication Overprotection Discipline problems No time for family Financial dilemmas “They don’t understand” (how much I have to study)

Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out. Robert Collier

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