It can all seem overwhelming for students as they slowly acclimate to the new normalcy on the Marist College campus. Arrows line the building floors, cautionary red signs sit at every corner, and mask stations are just a few of the new precautions that the college has implemented to reduce the spread of COVID-19. While these changes are crucial for the physical safety of the community, perhaps the biggest negative side effect is their impact on students’ mental health.

These new and abrupt changes, in addition to a lack of social interaction, could trigger negative feelings of anxiety and loneliness. “The change was so abrupt.” Director of Counseling Services, Dr. Naomi Ferleger said. “It continues to be very uncertain.”

Ferleger recommends not only taking the necessary steps to stay physically healthy, but also taking the time to stay mentally healthy as well. “One thing that I think is very important is to acknowledge how you’re feeling as a starting place,” Ferleger said. “Recognizing that this is such a different context [calls] for greater kindness and self patience.”

However, this can be quite challenging for first year students — especially those trying to adjust to the new and limited social life of a college campus. “A big part of the first semester of college is meeting new people,” said Anna Obsgarten ‘24. “It’s pretty lonely, honestly, since we can’t go out and do much.”

Ferleger recognizes that feeling a sense of community during a time of social distancing is definitely a challenge, but it’s not impossible. “Look for opportunities where you can connect,” she said. “Whether it’s roommates, housemates or other people in your life back home.”

Despite the limiting opportunities for in-person interactions, there are still numerous ways to get involved on campus, including virtual clubs and events. For new students feeling overwhelmed or anxious in these new social settings, Counseling Services also offers a group program, “Settling In.” The group meets every Monday, Tuesday and Friday during the month of September to discuss these challenges.

“It doesn't have to be feast or famine,” Ferleger said. “One of the elements of self-compassion is being kind, gentle, and most importantly, patient with yourself.” For those looking to share their feelings with a counselor, Counseling Services is now offering secure, virtual sessions that adhere to all COVID-19 protocols. These include one-on-one sessions, groups like Social Anxiety in the Age of Zoom,” and resources like “Stress and Self Care” and “Resources for Coping with Racial Trauma.”

Throughout this time of uncertainty, Ferleger said it’s important that “we figure out what kinds of mental health support [systems] can be there for students and for the entire Marist community.” She reminds students, “Know that you’re not alone in what you’re going through.”

Learn more about what’s offered through Counseling Services here: https://www.marist.edu/student-life/services/counseling.

How to Take Care of your Mental Health During COVID-19

MARIST CIRCLE