Students offered help in dealing with stress

By Callie Campbell, News Writing Student

It’s crunch time again, and students are beginning to feel the pressure.

Looming deadlines, fast-approaching finals, plus often juggling family stress and job pressure all lead to stress, said Mary Turner, learning support specialist in Student Services.

OCCC offers several opportunities for students who are struggling, Turner said.

For starters, students can stop in and talk with Turner.

She said she can help students who feel like all their work is due at the same time, or feel they are struggling to pass.

“I can help students figure out how to balance their workload in the next few weeks,” Turner said.

Faculty can get help for students by having Turner speak to their classes about end-of-the-year preparation, she said.

For students feeling mental strain, OCCC offers the free services of a licensed professional psychiatrist.

The psychiatrist is available at the campus to talk to students from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday in the Student Services Center.

One student has her own way of coping with stress.

“The most important thing that helps me reduce stress is scheduling time to do nothing, just relax,” said Sandie Womble, a student pursuing her degree in Organizational Leadership.

“I like to sit on my porch and watch the stars.”

Turner said the OCCC Wellness Center also is available to help students work out some of their anxiety.

“Being more active can help a lot with stress,” she said.

The center is open from 6 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday to students with a valid student ID.

There, students can choose from a variety of athletic services, including a cardio room, a gymnasium, a weight room and a pool.

Students can get more information about the various counseling and support services available by visiting www.occc.edu/support/counseling.