What is Sexual Assault??

Rape is not the only form of sexual assault. In fact, sexual assault can include unwanted kissing and fondling, and does not have to include force. Any sexual activity that is NON-CONSENSUAL can be considered a form of sexual assault. So what are some forms of sexual assault?

Sexual Assault: No means No! Sexual assault according to PA law is non-forcible but nonconsensual sexual intercourse or attempted sexual intercourse.

Rape: Nonconsensual sexual intercourse or attempted sexual intercourse by force or threat of force. Rape also includes having sexual intercourse with someone unable to give consent.

Indecent Assault: Unwanted sexual contact. Examples include undesired kissing, touching, and fondling.

Victim Aftermath

Victims of sexual assault can suffer many physical and/or emotional consequences including:

Sleep Disturbances
Flashbacks
Inability to concentrate
Intense fear for safety
Guilt
Anxiety
Stress
Headaches
Digestive problems

Where to Find Help

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault there is help! Counseling services are available at the college counseling center located in Bold Hall, 261& 263. Stop by or call 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506.

For more information and other resources and options regarding sexual assault contact Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) by calling 1-866-END-RAPE or 412-431-5665 (available 24 hrs) www.paar.net.

Suicide 

Unfortunately, many people turn to suicide as an escape. Thinking it is their only way out of a troubled life, they choose a very permanent solution. Suicide does not only affect the victims, but also has a devastating effect on their family and friends. SUICIDE IS NOT THE ANSWER!!! There are other positive ways to relieve mental anguish.

For more information on suicide contact:

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, www.afsp.org.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

If you or anyone you know is considering suicide, please find help. Contact the Counseling Center at 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506 during normal business hours. Outside of those hours, counselors can also be reached in emergencies by contacting an RA or Security Officer.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is also available 24 hrs a day at
1-800-273-TALK!

Statistics

•  Suicide is America 's 8th leading cause of death (National Mental Health Association, 2006).

•  In 1998, suicide was the 3rd leading cause of death among 15-24 yr olds and 2nd among the college population (NMHA, 1998).

•  95% of students who commit suicide were suffering from mental illness, mostly depression (NMHA, 2006).

•  College students that suffer from depression and also have problems with substance abuse, anxiety, impulsivity, rage, hopelessness, or desperation are at an increased risk for suicide.

Facts and Myths Regarding Suicide

Myth: People who really want to kill themselves do it without warning.

Fact: There are many risk factors and warning signs for suicide, and suicidal people often leave many clues.

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Myth: People who really want to die are determined to kill themselves, so there is no stopping them.

Fact: Most suicidal people are torn between life and death, so intervention can be prevention.

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Myth: Once suicidal, always suicidal

Fact: People are only suicidal for a period of time.

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Myth: Suicide occurs more often within certain classes of people.

Fact: Suicide is prevalent among all levels of socioeconomic status proportionately.

SOURCE: Schneidman, E.S., Farberow, N.L., & Litman, R.E. The psychology of suicide. New York : Aronson, 1983. (as cited in http://www.infoline.org/Crisis/factsfables.asp )

Suicide Warning Signs 

There are both early and late warning signs for a suicidal person. These signs are usually out of character for the individual, are affecting his/her life negatively, and last for at least 2 weeks.

Early Warning Signs

•  Work/school problems
•  Talk of death/suicide
•  Depressed mood
•  Poor hygiene
•  Increase in drug and alcohol consumption
•  Quitting clubs, activities
•  Increased or decreased sleep/change in sleep patterns
•  Social isolation
•  Inability to find meaning in life
•  Loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities
•  Hopelessness
•  Agitation
•  Helplessness

Late Warning Signs

•  Preoccupied with his/her failures
•  Overreacts to criticism
•  Full of anger/rage
•  Pessimistic about the present and future
•  Preoccupied with death and dying
•  Ends significant friendships/relationships
•  Takes unnecessary risks
•  Can't concentrate
•  Buys a firearm or other suspicious material that could be used to kill himself/herself
•  Has a plan to kill himself/herself
•  Starts to give away belongings
•  Unexplainable or unexpected increase in mood
•  Begins planning funeral and/or will.

U.S. Public Health Services, The Surgeon General's Call to Action to Prevent Suicide, Department of Health and Human Services, 1999.
(as cited in http://www.infoline.org/Crisis/warningsigns.asp)

Help, I think my friend wants to commit suicide!!! 

It is a very scary experience to have a friend or someone that you love threaten suicide, and sometimes it is difficult to understand why he/she feels that way, and what to do to help. Always take the threat seriously and remember that you do not have to carry the burden alone. Refer them to the counseling center or tell an RA!!

If you want to continue to be supportive of your friend while he/she is getting help, here are some tips.

•  Be direct and talk openly about suicide.
•  Listen and allow the suicidal person to express his/her feelings.
•  Be non-judgmental. Do not impose your personal beliefs about suicide onto your friend. Example: Don't tell your friend whether you think suicide is right or wrong or discuss the value of life.
•  Be available, show interest and be supportive by getting involved.
•  Never dare him/her to do it!!!
•  Don't act shocked to avoid distancing yourself from your friend.
•  Never promise not to tell anyone. Always find help.
•  Try to make the person hopeful by suggesting alternatives to solving the problem, but don't reassure that they'll work.
•  Take action. Help the person make himself/herself safe by removing any possible suicide implements, like pills, sharp objects, and firearms.
•  Don't minimize the person's problems and offer simple solutions.
•  Most of all: Contact the counseling center or other crisis intervention agencies for help.

Taken from: http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org/help/friend.aspx

I feel like I want to kill myself and I don't know what to do!

If you are feeling suicidal, there is help! Talking your thoughts through with a compassionate and empathetic counselor may help you to work through your problems and keep you safe by exploring other options.

Tell Someone!

If you are considering suicide, find support. If you are afraid to call a hotline or counseling services, then tell a friend or an RA. They can listen to you and support you while seeking professional help.

Contact:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline : 1-800-273-TALK (24 hrs) www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org

CONTACT Pittsburgh : 412-820-HELP (24 hrs)

La Roche College Counseling Services , Bold Hall Room 261 Don Treser, LSW/CAC, 412-536-1051 Lori Arend, MSW, 412-847-2506

Self-Harm and Suicidal Threats are Different!!

Self-injury, or self-harm is a coping mechanism, and usually not a conscious attempt to commit suicide.

•  It is referred to by many different names - self-inflicted violence, self-injury, self-harm, parasuicide, cutting, self-abuse, and self-mutilation

•  It is done as an attempt to manage intense feelings or to alter mood by inflicting physical harm serious enough to cause tissue damage to the body.

•  It is a coping mechanism, because it is a way of dealing with overwhelming feelings or situations.

•  Those who self-harm may not have learned effective ways to cope.

Types of Self-injury (SI)

There are many different forms of SI, but cutting, burning, and head-banging occur most often.

SI can also include the following:

•  Carving
•  Scratching
•  Branding
•  Biting
•  Hitting
•  Picking/pulling skin and/or hair
•  Bruising

However, it is not considered to be SI if it is done for sexual gratification, spiritual enlightenment/rituals, body decoration (e.g., piercings, tattoos), or to fit in or "be cool."

What kinds of people self-injure?

People who self-injure come from all walks of life and socioeconomic statuses. They are male, female, straight, gay, bisexual, doctors, therapists, lawyers, college students, high school dropouts, rich, poor, and from all nationalities. Their ages can range anywhere from early teens to early 60s. If you know or suspect someone of self-injurious behavior, refer them to the counseling center, Bold Hall Room 261 & 263, 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506.

For more information on self-injury:

Visit: http://www.nmha.org/infoctr/factsheets/selfinjury.cfm from the National Mental Health Association

Visit S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends) Alternatives, www.selfinjury.com or call 1-800-DON'T-CUT

Depression

Clinical depression is not feeling "blue" or sad for a few hours or days. Unfortunately, it is a mood disorder that has a much stronger and longer-lasting impact on daily life. It is the most common mood disorder experienced in the United States , and college students are at risk for developing depression because of the stressful college environment. If depression goes untreated, it can interfere with school, work, relationships, and all other aspects of life.

Symptoms of Depression

Here are some symptoms of depression that can vary in intensity (taken from www.infoline.org/Crisis/symptoms.asp on 8-15-2006):

•  Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
•  Frequent crying
•  Increased use of alcohol and/or drugs
•  Loss of sexual desire
•  Thoughts of suicide
•  Persistent sadness, anxiety, or "empty" mood
•  Pessimism and feelings of hopelessness
•  Loss of interest in pleasurable activities
•  Change in sleep (e.g. difficulty sleeping, oversleeping, early-morning awakening)
•  Appetite change such as overeating, under eating, weight loss or weight gain
•  Decrease in energy. Feeling fatigued/ being "slowed down'
•  Irritability/restlessness
•  Lack of concentration, inability to concentrate, remember, or make decisions
•  Physical symptoms such as chronic pain, headaches, digestive problems that do not respond to medical treatment

3 Types of Depression

Mild depression. Mild depression usually does not require treatment. It is brief and the symptoms are mild and are usually lifted with the passing of time. People may experience mild depression during transitions, holidays, stressful times, etc.

Moderate depression. Symptoms of moderate depression are more intense and have a longer duration. However, those suffering from moderate depression are usually able to manage and cope with life. Suicide may be a threat if there is an intense feeling of hopelessness. Professional help may be necessary. Moderate depression can be brought on by major life events such as death, rape, or career setback.

Severe depression. Severe depression requires professional treatment that often includes medication. A person suffering from severe depression often suffers from intense symptoms, behavior change, and social withdrawal. Severe depression can persist for a long period of time ranging from 2 weeks to many years.

Causes of Depression

Depression can develop due to a variety of circumstances and is usually due to a combination of reasons. Here are some causes of depression:

•  Personality type
•  Environmental influences
•  Biochemical factors
•  Genetic patterns
•  Negative attitudes
•  Seasonal change

For an online depression screening and/or more information about depression visit :

The National Institute of Mental Health : http://www.nimh.nih.gov

The National Mental Health Association: http://www.nmha.org/ http://www.depressionscreening.org/

If you or someone you know is suffering from any degree of depression please seek help through La Roche College Counseling Services, which is located in Bold Hall Rooms 263 and 261. Counselors can also be contacted by phone. Don Treser, LSW, CAC can be contacted at 412-536-1051 and Lori Arend, MSW at 412-847-2506.

If you need to talk to someone immediately you can call:

Eating Disorders 

Eating disorders are very serious, have many negative consequences, and can potentially be life-threatening. Since there is often a stigma associated with eating disorders, many people suffer from them alone for many years. With treatment, eating disorders can be cured. Food should not control anyone's life. If you or someone you know is suffering from an eating disorder, seek help! Recovery is possible!

The two most commonly known eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa.

Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa consists of self-starvation and excessive, unhealthy weight loss.There are five primary symptoms of Anorexia:

•  Inability to maintain at or above the minimally normal body weight determined by height, body type, age, and activity level.

•  Intense fear of weight gain or being "fat."

•  Continually feeling overweight or "fat" despite dramatic weight loss.

•  Loss of menstrual periods in post-puberty women and girls.

•  Extreme/obsessive concern with body weight and shape.

Anorexia Statistics

•  Anorexia has one of the highest death rates of any mental health condition

•  90-95% of anorexia nervosa sufferers are female.

•  Anorexia typically begins in early to mid-adolescence.

•  1-2% of American women suffer from anorexia

Health Consequences

Since anorexia nervosa consists of self-starvation, the body begins to shut down/slow down due to malnutrition in order to conserve energy.

Here are some medical consequences of self-starvation:

•  Low blood pressure and slow heart rate, which increases the risk for heart failure

•  Osteoporosis resulting in dry, brittle bones

•  Muscle loss and weakness

•  Severe dehydration, which can lead to kidney failure

•  Overall weakness and fatigue including fainting and dizziness

•  Hair loss

•  Dry skin

•  Growth of a layer of hair all over the body in attempt to keep the body warm.

* Anorexia facts and statistics taken from Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention (1998). www.edap.org

For more information visit:

The National Eating Disorders Association: www.edap.org

The National Institute of Mental Health : http://www.nimh.nih.gov

The National Mental Health Association: http://www.nmha.org/

For on campus help, contact the counseling center in Bold Hall rooms 261 and 263 at 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa is a cycle of bingeing and purging and has three main symptoms:

•  Out of control eating/Binge eating. Eating large quantities of food in short periods of time disregarding feelings of "hunger" of "fullness."

•  Following a binge with some sort of purge/compensating behavior to make up for the caloric intake which can include self induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic abuse, fasting, or obsessive/compulsive exercise.

•  Obsessive thoughts/concern with body weight and shape.

•  1-4% of college age women suffer from Bulimia

•  1-3% of middle and high school girls suffer from Bulimia

•  80% of all Bulimia sufferers are female.

•  Sufferers are often of an average body weight.

Health Consequences

Bingeing and purging can have a many harmful effects on the body. It can disrupt the entire digestive system and lead to imbalances in the body that can affect the heart and other organs.

Some medical consequences of Bulimia include:

•  Electrolyte imbalances that can lead to irregular heart beats and death

•  Inflammation of the esophagus from frequent self-induced vomiting.

•  Irregular bowel movements and constipation

•  Tooth decay and staining from stomach acids

•  Ulcers and pancreatitis

•  Gastric rupture

* Bulimia facts and statistics taken from Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention (1998). www.edap.org

For more information visit:

The National Eating Disorders Association: www.edap.org

The National Institute of Mental Health : http://www.nimh.nih.gov

The National Mental Health Association: http://www.nmha.org/

For on campus help, contact LRC Counseling Services at 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506, located in Bold Hall rooms 261, and 263.

Abuse of Drugs and Alcohol

Drug abuse and addiction affects millions of Americans. Abuse and addiction not only affect the user, but the people surrounding him/her are affected as well. College is a time when binge drinking occurs most often, which can have potentially dangerous outcomes. Furthermore, students may begin to experiment with other substances as well. Drugs and alcohol are dangerous toxins that poison the body and can lead a person into a life of agony and disappointment. Substance abuse not only leads to physical problems, but psychological problems as well. However, not only drug and alcohol abusers' lives are affected by addiction. Knowing and loving someone who is an addict is often hurtful as well. The majority of the population is unfamiliar of chemical dependency, addiction, and abuse. Without the spread of knowledge, people will continue to fall into the darkness of addiction. The purpose of this site is to link you to information regarding drug and alcohol abuse and addiction and provide you with some warning signs of an abuser and addict.

What is addiction?

Addiction can have many different definitions, and is in fact, a controversial term. There is both physical and psychological addiction. Generally, addiction includes drug craving and drug seeking. It includes an inability to stop using due to physical and psychological consequences, or withdrawal. Addicts then tend to feel that they "need" the substance to function. Addicts continue to use substances despite negative consequences such as legal problems, academic problems, and relationship conflicts. Addicts will often try to limit their use following these negative consequences, but tend to fail in doing so. They also often feel guilty for their use, but are still unable to stop.

What is Substance Abuse?

Substance abuse involves using drugs or alcohol in order to change the way you feel about yourself in some way. Abusers may experience some negative consequences of their use, but are able to begin to limit their use, to prevent further consequences. Usually, substance abusers will keep those limits. Substance abusers may get some complaints about their use from others, but accept them as concern. It is not unlikely for a substance abuser to develop into an addict.

Warning Signs of Addiction

Addiction to any drug may include these general characteristics:

• Feeling that you need the drug on a regular basis to have fun, relax or deal with your problems
• Giving up familiar activities such as sports, homework, or hobbies
• Sudden changes in work or school attendance and quality of work or grades
• Doing things you normally wouldn't do to obtain drugs, such as frequently borrowing money or stealing items from employer, home or school
• Taking uncharacteristic risks, such as driving under the influence or sexually risky behavior
• Anger outbursts, acting irresponsibly and overall attitude change
• Deterioration of physical appearance and grooming.
• Wearing sunglasses and/or long sleeve shirts frequently or at inappropriate times
• No longer spending time with friends who don't use drugs and/or associating with known users
• Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors such as frequent trips to storage rooms, restroom, basement, etc.
• Needing to use more of the drug of choice to achieve the same effects
• Talking about drugs all the time and pressuring others to use with you
• Feeling exhausted, depressed, hopeless, or suicidal

*list of warning signs and symptoms taken from this source.

But I only drink alcohol, I don't do drugs.

Get it right! Alcohol is a drug. In fact, the physical withdrawal from alcohol is more dangerous than most drugs, including heroin. Since binge drinking occurs so often on college campuses, there is a concern of students drinking to the point of acute alcohol poisoning . Acute alcohol poisoning can occur when someone Drinks too much too fast.Without knowing the proper signs and symptoms, students often leave their drunken friends alone to "sleep it off." Unfortunately, many of these students never awake, because their blood alcohol content continues to rise after they stop drinking. Never leave a drunken friend alone, especially when they are showing the following signs and symptoms:

• Unconsciousness or semi-consciousness
• Slow respiration (eight or less breaths per minute or lapse of more than 10 minutes)
• Cold, clammy, pale, or bluish skin
• Strong odor of alcohol
• Repeated episodes of vomiting.
• Vomiting while "sleeping" or passed out, and not waking up after vomiting

What should I do if I think someone has acute alcohol poisoning??

• If you encounter someone with one or more of the above symptoms, call 911 immediately
• While waiting for the ambulance, gently turn the intoxicated person on his or her side and maintain that position. This keeps the airway open, and prevents choking if the person vomits.
• Stay with the person until medical help arrives.

Why does acute alcohol poisoning occur?

Acute alcohol poisoning happens because the liver can only metabolize 1 drink (5 oz. wine, 1.5 oz. of distilled liquor, or 12 oz. beer) per hour. When people binge drink, or drink too fast, the liver gets behind, and more alcohol goes into the blood stream, which then directly affects the brain.

Statistics

• Between 2% and 3% of the current American college population will die from alcohol related causes.
• Thirty percent of college failure is alcohol related.
• Drinking and driving is the number one killer of Americans between the ages of 17-24.
• In the U.S. , 70 people are killed daily in drunk driving accidents; that is roughly one person killed every 22 minutes.
• 69% of all drownings are alcohol related.
• One in every three suicides involves alcohol.
• The average female college student spends $150.00 per year on alcohol.
• The average male college student spends $300.00 per year on alcohol.
• The average DUI arrest costs the charged person $3000.00.
• Alcohol plays a role in 50% of all arrests.
• 90% of the vandalism that occurs on college campuses is a result of alcohol use.
• 75% to 90% of campus rapes involve alcohol use.
• 75% of men and 50% of women involved in sexual assaults had been drinking prior to the assault.
• The abuse of alcohol is present in 70% of all murders and other violent crimes.
• 54% of alcoholics have an alcoholic parent.
• One out of 3 Americans don't drink - and that's okay too.

* statistics taken from http://www.radford.edu/~kcastleb/text.html

* If you or someone you know is leading a life of addiction, or might be questioning their drug and alcohol consumption, please seek help. There are many resources available in the Pittsburgh area that can cater to your needs. Visit the La Roche College Counseling Center in Bold Hall Rooms 261 & 263. Schedule an appointment with one of our counselors by calling 412-536-1051, or 412-847-2506.

For more information on substance abuse visit:

•  The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: http://www.oas.samhsa.gov/ and http://ncadi.samhsa.gov/

•  The National Institute on Drug Abuse: http://www.nida.nih.gov/

•  College Drinking Prevention for information specifically about Acute Alcohol Poisoning

Detox and Rehabilitation Services

•  Greenbriar Treatment Centers: call 1- 800-637-4673 http://www.greenbriar.net/

•  White Deer Run/Cove Forge Behavioral Health- Pittsburgh location: call 412-431-3363 for an assessment (located in South Side) http://www.whitedeerrun.com/

•  Gateway Rehab: http://www.gatewayrehab.org/genesis.htm (click on link for locations and phone numbers)

12 Step Meetings for Substance Addicts:

•  Alcoholics Anonymous: http://www.alcoholicsanonymous.org/?Media=PlayFlash

•  Narcotics Anonymous: http://www.na.org/

For Friends and Families of Addicts:

•  Al-anon & Al-ateen: http://www.al-anon.alateen.org/

•  Nar-anon of PA: http://www.naranon.com/home.html

Grief and Loss

Loss of a loved one can be the most stressful event in someone's life that can cause emotional conflict. Bereavement is the term identifying the feeling you encounter after you lose someone you love. This term means, "to be deprived by death."

After death you may feel many emotions such as:

•  Denial
•  Disbelief
•  Confusion
•  Shock
•  Sadness
•  Yearning
•  Anger
•  Humiliation
•  Despair
•  Guilt

These emotions are very common.

Remember- It takes time to fully absorb the impact of a major loss. You never stop missing your loved one, but the pain eases after time and allows you to go on with your life.

Mourning A Loved One

Mourning is the natural process you go through to accept a major loss.

Grieving is the outward expression of your loss. It is important to express these emotions.

Dealing with a Major Loss

The death of a loved one is always difficult. Your reactions are influenced by the circumstances of a death, particularly when it is sudden or accidental. Your reactions are also influenced by your relationship with the person who died.

A child's death arouses an overwhelming sense of injustice - for lost potential, unfulfilled dreams and senseless suffering. Parents may feel responsible for the child's death, no matter how irrational that may seem. Parents may also feel that they have lost a vital part of their own identity.

A spouse's death is very traumatic. In addition to the severe emotional shock, the death may cause a potential financial crisis if the spouse was the family's main income source.  The death may necessitate major social adjustments requiring the surviving spouse to parent alone, adjust to single life and maybe even return to work.

Elderly people may be especially vulnerable when they lose a spouse because it means losing a lifetime of shared experiences. At this time, feelings of loneliness may be compounded by the death of close friends.

Suicide can be among the most difficult losses to bear. They may leave the survivors with a tremendous burden of guilt, anger and shame. Survivors may even feel responsible for the death.  Seeking counseling during the first weeks after the suicide is particularly beneficial and advisable.

Living with Grief

Coping with death is vital to your mental health. It is only natural to experience grief when a loved one dies. The best thing you can do is allow yourself to grieve. There are many ways to cope effectively with your pain.

•  Seek out caring people. Find relatives and friends who can understand your feelings of loss. Join support groups with others who are experiencing similar losses.

•  Express your feelings. Tell others how you are feeling; it will help you to work through the grieving process.

•  Take care of your health. Maintain regular contact with your family physician and be sure to eat well and get plenty of rest. Be aware of the danger of developing a dependence on medication or alcohol to deal with your grief.

•  Accept that life is for the living. It takes effort to begin to live again in the present and not dwell on the past.

•  Postpone major life changes. Try to hold off on making any major changes, such as moving, remarrying, changing jobs or having another child. You should give yourself time to adjust to your loss.

•  Be patient. It can take months or even years to absorb a major loss and accept your changed life.

•  Seek outside help when necessary . If your grief seems like it is too much to bear, seek professional assistance to help work through your grief. It's a sign of strength, not weakness, to seek help.

Helping Others Grieve

If someone you care about has lost a loved one, you can help them through the grieving process.

•   Share the sorrow. Allow them - even encourage them - to talk about their feelings of loss and share memories of the deceased.

•  Don't offer false comfort.  It doesn't help the grieving person when you say "it was for the best" or "you'll get over it in time." Instead, offer a simple expression of sorrow and take time to listen.

•  Offer practical help. Baby-sitting, cooking and running errands are all ways to help someone who is in the midst of grieving.

•  Be patient. Remember that it can take a long time to recover from a major loss. Make yourself available to talk.

•  Encourage professional help when necessary. Don't hesitate to recommend professional help when you feel someone is experiencing too much pain to cope alone.

Where to Find Help

If you or someone you know is in a crisis now, seek help immediately.

Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) a 24-hour crisis center.

Or contact Pennsylvania- Mental Health America of Allegheny County to find local support groups.

Address: 1945 Fifth Avenue Pittsburgh , Pa 15219
Phone: 412-391-3820
Toll-Free: 877-391-3820
Email: mha@mhaac.net

Counseling services are available at the college counseling center located in Bold Hall, 261& 263. Stop by or call 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506.

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Homesickness 

What is homesickness?

Homesickness is a common occurrence, especially among college students. The move from living at home to living on a college campus is a big transition. Leaving what you are used to can cause anxiety and a depressed mood, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. It can be hard to accept that life goes on at home while you are not there. You can feel isolated and lonely and not receive the full benefits of living in the college community. Usually with time, students are able to adjust to their new environment and are able to enjoy their new lifestyles. Unfortunately, for some students the transition can take a long time, because thoughts of home, including routines, physical surroundings, people, and pets preoccupy their mind and begin to interfere with their lives. Not feeling comfortable where you live is a frightening experience.

What can help?

There are many things that can help alleviate the anxiety and depression associated with homesickness. Here are some suggestions:

•  Talk to someone, anyone. A friend, counselor, RA, professor, tutor, nun, priest, etc. can all help.

•  Try not to "escape" from campus every weekend or holiday. Staying on campus will give you the opportunity to get involved with activities and get acquainted with others in the college community. Remember, you need to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings, in order to get comfortable.

•  Stay in touch with people from home. Call them on a regular basis, plan trips to visit, have them visit you, etc.

•  You are not alone! Remember that you are not the only person on campus dealing with homesickness. Perhaps you can even befriend someone who is experiencing the same symptoms as you, and you can cope with them together.

•  Having fun on campus is not being disloyal to the people back home. You are allowed to have fun in your new setting.

•  Be sure that your life is balanced. Though college comes with academic pressure and a higher workload than high school, make sure you incorporate fun into your life to prevent burnout.

•  Get enough sleep and food. Bad nutrition and lack of sleep can directly affect your mood.

•  Join a club or organization. Being involved on campus will not only give you something to do, but it will provide a group or people with which to socialize and give you a sense of belonging.

•  Remember that it will take time. Don't expect feelings of homesickness to go away within a few weeks.

•  Assess whether the campus is right for you after giving at least a semester's worth of a chance. Talk to a counselor, who can help you to figure out your options.

If you or someone you know is suffering from homesickness, contact the counseling center for assistance. We can help you help yourself!! Counseling services are located in Bold Hall, rooms 261 and 263. Call and schedule an appointment with one of our counselors at 412-536-1051.

For more information on Homesickness, visit http://www.counselling.cam.ac.uk/hsick.html

Stress/PTSD 

Stress

EVERYONE experiences stress throughout their lives, but did you know that there is good stress and bad stress? The trick is recognizing when your stress is healthy or unhealthy. Stress can cause both physical and emotional consequences. Stress is the body's preparation to perform with focus, stamina, strength and alertness in a tough situation. For example, good stress is when you have to slam on the breaks to avoid an accident, or the stress that makes you study harder to feel comfortable taking a test. Good stress keeps you on your toes and ready to rise to the challenge. Bad stress, on the other hand, leads to excessive worrying and stress overload. This stress leaves a person feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and mentally and physically exhausted. For example, bad stress is when you are so stressed about a test that you are unable to concentrate. In addition, bad stress can lead to lack of sleep, weakened immune system, ulcers, or other unwanted physical ailments.

Stressors

Stress is caused by many situations. These situations are called stressors. The more stressors you have and the longer you have them, the higher your stress level, and the more physiological and emotional symptoms you experience, because your body is constantly on edge, releasing hormones to help you relax. Remember that stress is not only caused by specific, short-term events. Dealing with divorce, family conflicts, relationship problems, or death are examples of long-term stressful situations that can have a harmful effect on the body.

If you are having a difficult time coping with stress, there is help. You can make an appointment with a counselor at 412-536-1051, and/ or practice better time management techniques (link) when your stress is related to school work and studying.

PTSD

Some stress can be so severe that it interferes with life. People that are victims or witnesses of traumatic events can develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a serious disorder that requires professional help to alleviate. People suffering from PTSD tend to feel that their safety is being threatened. They are often afraid and feel helpless that they have no control over the safety of their lives. A typical symptom of PTSD, flashbacks may occur on a regular basis. Flashbacks are like uncontrollable daydreams, where the person will relive the traumatic event in their heads, but feel that they are really there. Therefore, the person re-experiences all of the emotional feelings associated with that event. These flashbacks are usually easily triggered and very unpleasant.

Unlike normal stress, PTSD often lasts for longer than a month and includes flashbacks, hyperalertness, emotional numbness (like dulled feelings of love and pleasure), and avoidance of anything related to the traumatic event.

If you feel that you may be suffering from PTSD, please contact the La Roche college counseling services for professional help. We are located in Bold Hall, rooms 261 & 263 and can be reached at 412-536-1051

*all information on stress and PTSD was taken from http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/emotions/stress.html

For more information on either stress or PTSD please visit:

Teens' Health; http://www.kidshealth.org/teen/your_mind/emotions/stress.html

The National Mental Health Association; http://www.nmha.org/infoctr/factsheets/index.cfm

The National Institute of Mental Health http://www.nimh.nih.gov/

Time Management 

Time management is an excellent skill to master, especially while pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree. Effectively managing time can decrease stress, help you to better prepare for tests, and lead to overall better grades.

Bad time management techniques

•  Doing too much at once . Taking too many classes, belonging to too many organizations, trying to complete too many projects, etc. all at once can lead to poor work and performance.

•  Procrastinating . Don't wait until the last minute to complete assignments or to study. Putting off doing work can lead to increased stress and poor work.

•  Perfectionism . If you waste too much time trying to be perfect on the small things, you'll never complete the big things.

•  Giving into peer pressure . Too many distractions, parties, activities with friends, keeps you from doing what needs to get done.

•  Disorganization . Disorganization itself leads to poor performance. You need to be able to have neat notes to do well on a test, and you need to be able to find what you need when you need it.

Good time management techniques

1. Be organized. Keep your notes, books, folders neatly marked and organized for easy access. Keep a planner, so you can map out due dates and plan sufficient time to work on papers and study for tests
2. Prioritize. Making a priority list of things to do in the order that they need to be done can help to keep you on track and help to relieve stress. As you mark off each item, your stress decreases.
3. Avoid procrastination/don't waste time. Organization and priority to-do lists will help you to plan time for all your projects, but make sure you plan ahead and set aside enough time for each project you have to complete. Cramming for exams or writing papers at the last minute, increases anxiety/stress and is likely to result in lower grades and stupid mistakes.
4. Find a balance between working hard and having fun. You are on a college campus, and your life should not be all work and no play. You are expected to go out and have a good time in your new environment. Enjoy your freedom, but don't let your grades suffer. Scheduling time for both work and fun will increase your mood while decreasing stress.
5. Don't give into peer pressure. You are always going to have friends that aren't doing work while you are. Stick to your schedule. Don't let friends talk you out of completing what you need to get done. Skipping out on work times to hang out with friends can get you off track.
6. Pick quiet places to study. Face it-distractions are bad when you are trying to study and do work. Plan to do work in the library or in a study lounge. The less distraction, the better you'll take in the information and the less you'll make mistakes.
7. Set goals for yourself. Setting long-term and short-term goals gives your life a purpose and focus.

If you need more help with time management, visit the counseling center in Bold Hall, rooms 261 & 263. Call for an appointment: 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506. One of our counselors will be happy to assist you!!

For more time management techniques, visit Mind Tools @ http://www.mindtools.com/page5.html

Anxiety 

Do you worry a lot? Does your worrying seem excessive to yourself or others? Does it interfere with your schoolwork or daily activities? If so, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Are you alone?

NOT AT ALL, here are some anxiety statistics :

•  close to 7 percent of college students report having symptoms

•  More than 40 million men and women are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder annually

•  Anxiety disorders can develop at any age, but are likely to begin to show themselves during teenage years and young adulthood (20's).

•  Women are twice as likely then men to experience anxiety

•  30% of all women will suffer from some kind of anxiety at some point in their lives.

*statistics taken from: http://www.gotanxiety.org/AnxietyDisorder.asp

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is related to stress. Like stress, it is part of our bodies' "fight or flight" response, which helps us to prepare for dangerous situations. Everyone experiences some anxiety during his or her life; it is natural. However, some people experience more intense anxiety than others. If you experience persistent anxiety in everyday life, you may want to seek help or more information.

Recognizing the difference between normal anxiety and an anxiety disorder

* table taken from http://www.gotanxiety.org/AnxietyDisorder.asp

If you think you or someone you know may be suffering from an anxiety disorder, please get help. Contact LRC counseling services located in Bold Hall 261 & 263, 412-536-1051 or 412-847-2506.

More Information:

•  For more information and self-tests visit the Anxiety Disorders Association of America: http://www.adaa.org/

•  For information and helpful tips for relieving TEST ANXIETY visit CampusBlues.com: http://www.campusblues.com/test.asp

•  The National Institute of Mental Health : http://www.nimh.nih.gov

•  The National Mental Health Association: http://www.nmha.org/

Gambling

What is Problem Gambling?

Problem gambling is gambling behavior which causes disruptions in any major area of life: psychological, physical, social or vocational. The term "Problem Gambling" includes, but is not limited to, the condition known as "pathological" or "compulsive" gambling, a progressive addiction characterized by increasing preoccupation with gambling, a need to bet more money more frequently, restlessness or irritability when attempting to stop, "chasing" losses, and loss of control manifested by continuation of the gambling behavior in spite of mounting, serious, negative consequences.

National Counsel on Problem Gambling : http://www.ncpgambling.org

Understanding how gambling works and the dangers that are associated with gambling is an important step in your journey.

There is help for the family members and friends of a compulsive gambler in Gam-anon

Information from Gam- anon: http://www.gam-anon.org/

Some Myth's and Fact's about Gambling:

Myth: You have to gamble everyday to be a problem gambler.

Fact: A problem gambler may gamble frequently or infrequently. If a person's gambling is causing psychological, financial, emotional, marital, legal or other difficulties for themselves and the people around them, then they have a gambling problem.

Myth: Problem gamblers gamble at any opportunity on any form of gambling.

Fact: Most problem gamblers have a favorite form of gambling that causes them problems. Some gamblers also engage in secondary forms of gambling, but these are not usually as problematic.

Myth: Problem gamblers are irresponsible people.

Fact: Many problem gamblers hold, or have held, responsible community positions. In addition, even people with a long history of responsible behavior are vulnerable to developing a gambling problem. When a person is having a problem gambling episode, that person is unable to control their gambling and in this compromised state their actions look like irresponsible behavior.

Myth: If a problem gambler builds up a debt, the important thing to do is to help them get out of the financial problem as soon as possible.

Fact: Quick fix solutions are often attractive to everyone involved and may appear to be the right thing to do, however, "bailing" the gambler out of debt may actually make matters worse by enabling gambling problems to continue.

Myth: Problem gambling is easy to recognize.

Fact: Problem gambling has been called the hidden addiction. It is very easy to hide as it has few recognizable symptoms, unlike alcohol and drug use. Many problem gamblers themselves do not recognize they have a gambling problem. Problem gamblers often engage in self-denial.

March 5-11, 2007 Adapted from Chris Lobsinger's Problem Gambling Pages.

Helpful Links :

Pennsylvania's website : http://www.pacouncil.com/

Gambler's Anonymous : http://www.gamblersanonymous.org/

Gam-Anon: http://www.gam-anon.org/

Institute for Research on Pathological Gambling and Related Disorders: http://www.divisiononaddictions.org

National Counsel on Problem Gambling: http://www.ncpgambling.org

National Problem Gambling Awareness: http://www.npgaw.org/

If you feel gambling is affecting your life in a negative way
call Counseling Services at 412-847-2506 or 412-536-1051

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