Back to Campus? How to Know When It’s Time to Seek Mental Health Support
College is often described as “the best years of your life.” But for many students, returning to campus after a break — whether it’s summer vacation, winter break, or even a gap year — can bring a mix of excitement, pressure, and unexpected stress.
Between the demands of academics, shifting social circles, financial concerns, and living away from home, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
For some students, these challenges are temporary speed bumps. For others, they’re signs that it might be time to seek help from a trained mental health professional.
At Sage Leaf Wellness in St. Paul, MN, therapist Abby Driessen, MA, MFT specializes in helping students navigate life transitions like this with compassion, insight, and practical tools.
In this post, we’ll explore:
The common challenges college students face when returning to school
The subtle and obvious signs that you might benefit from therapy
How working with a therapist like Abby Driessen can help you build resilience and thrive
Why Returning to School Can Be More Stressful Than You Expect
It’s natural to think the hardest part of college is starting freshman year — and for many, it is. But the truth is, any return to school can bring unique mental and emotional hurdles.
Some of the most common stressors include:
1. Shifting Friendships and Social Pressure
Friend groups change fast in college. You might return to find your circle has moved in a new direction, or you might be navigating a long-distance relationship. This can create feelings of isolation or uncertainty.
2. Academic Pressure
Even if you did well last semester, the demands of a new course load can feel daunting. Professors may expect more, workloads may increase, and imposter syndrome can creep in.
3. Financial Stress
From tuition payments to everyday expenses, financial strain can intensify once you’re back on campus.
4. Changes in Living Arrangements
Whether you’re moving into a dorm, off-campus housing, or back home temporarily, adjusting to a new environment can be emotionally taxing.
5. Life Transitions and Identity Development
College is a time of self-discovery. You may find yourself questioning your career path, values, relationships, or even your sense of identity.
Signs You Might Benefit from Talking to a Therapist
It’s important to remember that therapy isn’t just for when you’ve “hit rock bottom.” The earlier you recognize signs of struggle, the more quickly you can get the support you need.
Here are some key indicators that it might be time to reach out for help:
1. Persistent Anxiety or Worry
If racing thoughts or constant worry are interfering with your ability to focus on schoolwork, sleep, or relationships, therapy can help you learn strategies to manage anxiety.
2. Feeling Overwhelmed or Burned Out
If you constantly feel like you’re “running on empty” — emotionally, mentally, or physically — it’s a sign you need to prioritize your mental health.
3. Changes in Sleep or Appetite
Difficulty sleeping, oversleeping, loss of appetite, or overeating can all be signs of underlying stress, depression, or anxiety.
4. Withdrawal from Friends or Activities
If you’re avoiding social events or no longer enjoy activities you used to love, that’s a signal to check in with yourself and possibly a therapist.
5. Difficulty Concentrating
When academic tasks that used to be manageable now feel impossible, it could be more than just a “bad week.”
6. Feeling Sad or Hopeless
Persistent sadness or feelings of hopelessness shouldn’t be ignored. Professional support can help you understand and work through these emotions.
How Therapy Can Help College Students Navigate Transitions
Therapy provides a safe, judgment-free space to process what you’re experiencing and develop tools to manage it.
At Sage Leaf Wellness, Abby Driessen uses an empathetic and collaborative approach, helping students:
Build coping strategies for stress and anxiety
Clarify personal goals and values to align with academic and life decisions
Improve communication skills for navigating friendships, family relationships, and romantic partnerships
Strengthen emotional resilience to better handle change and uncertainty
Abby’s background in marriage and family therapy means she can also help you explore how your relationships — past and present — affect your mental health.
Why College Students Choose Sage Leaf Wellness in St. Paul, MN
Sage Leaf Wellness is more than just a counseling practice — it’s a supportive environment designed to help you grow, heal, and thrive.
Located in St. Paul, we understand the unique needs of students at nearby colleges and universities, including the University of Minnesota, University of St. Thomas, MCAD, Macalester College, Hamline University, University of Northwestern-St Paul, Bethel University, and St. Catherine University.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Therapists who specialize in young adult transitions
Evidence-based approaches like mindfulness, EMDR, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and family systems therapy
Flexible scheduling to work around busy academic calendars
Warm, welcoming environment that encourages openness and growth
Abby Driessen, MA, MFT, is especially skilled at helping students find their voice, build confidence, and reconnect with their sense of purpose.
What to Expect in Your First Session
Starting therapy can feel intimidating — especially if you’ve never been before. Here’s what you can expect when working with Abby:
A Warm Introduction – You’ll get to share your story at your own pace.
Clarifying Your Goals – Together, you’ll discuss what you hope to gain from therapy.
Identifying Strengths and Challenges – Abby will help you see both your struggles and your existing resources.
Collaborative Planning – You’ll develop a personalized approach for moving forward.
No pressure. No judgment. Just genuine support.
Quick Self-Check: Do You Need Extra Support?
If you’re returning to campus, ask yourself:
Am I more anxious, sad, or stressed than usual?
Am I avoiding classes, friends, or responsibilities?
Have my sleep, eating, or energy levels changed significantly?
Do I feel disconnected from myself or others?
Am I finding it harder to cope than in past semesters?
If you answered “yes” to any of these, it may be worth exploring therapy.
Taking the First Step Toward Support
You don’t have to wait until your grades slip or your relationships suffer to seek help. In fact, the earlier you address mental health challenges, the better your outcomes will be — both academically and personally.
Whether you’re experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, or just the uncertainty that comes with change, talking to a therapist like Abby Driessen can make all the difference.
About Sage Leaf Wellness
Sage Leaf Wellness in St. Paul, MN, offers compassionate, expert therapy services for individuals, couples, and families. Our team believes in the power of connection, self-discovery, and resilience. We’re here to help you navigate challenges and create a life that feels aligned and fulfilling.
Located just off the Green Line in St Paul, Sage Leaf Wellness, St. Paul, MN is at 821 Raymond Ave, St Paul, MN 55114.
Get in touch!
Shoot us a text at 612-293-8019
Email at hello@sageleafwellness.com
Or hop over to the calendar and Schedule Today!
If you’re a college student returning to campus and want support in navigating the transition, reach out today to schedule a session with Abby Driessen, MA, MFT. Your mental health matters — and so does your future.