Students are finding balance in the calm before the storm of the semester’s final season, but still juggle coursework, jobs and personal responsibilities while finding ways to manage the stress of the end of the fall semester through community, counseling services and wellness workshops.
Although the pressure hasn’t quite set in, the anticipation can weigh heavily.
Balancing multiple responsibilities often takes a toll on students’ mental health, even before the most intense parts of the semester begin.
Stress and anxiety can reside in the simple awareness of what’s ahead, regardless of the current academic standing, but many students are finding ways to stay grounded and proactive.
They are turning to hobbies, self-care and community support to navigate the semester’s buildup.
Josh Sarreal, a student at LBCC, shares some of his advice for resolution and coping throughout hard times.
“The best place to improve with mental health is finding a sense of community that gives you perfect peace. To say we’re all here together, to give life, give truth and give love. I think that’s one of the biggest elements on how to navigate some things,” said Josh Sarreal, President of the CRU Club at LBCC.
Others find comfort in communication and openness with professors.
“It’s just like learning how to communicate with your professors. If you have something you’re struggling with, just let them know. In high school, people say they’re not gonna let this slide in college. Yes, they are. Professors are more understanding than high school teachers,” Nailah Burgess, dancer and student at LBCC, said.
Student Nailah Burges shields herself from the sun while sitting by LAC’s Connecton Cafe on Oct. 2. Burges shared how she balances work, school and dance, and mentioned that dance is her coping outlet. (Hailey Hildreth)
As the semester continues, students across campus are learning that mental wellness doesn’t depend only on surviving finals.
It starts with the small, daily efforts to manage stress, reach out for support and build community along the way.
As students continue to balance academics and personal challenges, many are realizing that mental wellness begins with self-awareness.
“I think that you just have to be honest with yourself. That alone can fuel your motivation towards how you’re going to move forward. If you know you’re not doing so well, ask for help,” said Sylvia Ramos, a student at LBCC.
Talking about stress and wellness culture shifts can shift campus culture when openness and honesty take place.
At LBCC, students are redefining what it means to be strong by being open about what they need help with.
Therapists agree that this kind of reflection is key to preventing burnout before it begins.
“What’s powerful here is that students are checking in with themselves before burnout happens. That kind of self-awareness is exactly what we try to teach in therapy,” Sierra Williams, a therapist from Carter Care Therapeutic Services, said.
As students become more aware of their mental and emotional needs, many also turn to the mental health resources available right on campus.
Long Beach City College offers several services designed to support students’ well-being, from counseling to wellness workshops.
The Student Health Services at both the Liberal Arts Campus (LAC) and the Pacific Coast Campus (PCC) provide confidential mental health counseling, crisis intervention, and referrals for ongoing care.
Students can make appointments to speak with licensed therapists, join support groups, or access self-care materials through the LBCC Student Health Services website.
Walk-in hours are also available for those who need immediate help or just want to talk.
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