Freshman Year of College: 10 Common Stressors (and How to Cope With Them)
Freshman year of college is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. From homesickness and roommate conflicts to social anxiety, academic pressure, and learning to live independently, the transition is rarely as seamless as social media makes it seem. In this post, therapist Dayna Stein, LCSW, shares ten common challenges first-year college students face, along with practical strategies to build resilience, manage stress, and adjust with confidence. Whether you're a student preparing for college or a parent supporting your child, you'll find reassurance that feeling uncomfortable is a normal part of growth—and that you don't have to navigate it alone.
The Most Common Mental Health Challenges in Each Year of College
College brings new challenges every year—from homesickness and making friends as a freshman to career uncertainty as a senior. As a therapist who works often with UVM students, I've seen how the stressors evolve throughout college and how therapy can help students build confidence, manage anxiety, and navigate each stage with greater resilience. Learn about the most common mental health challenges students face during each year of college and discover that they don't have to face them alone.