Do I let the Uni know about anxiety?

[Pixie15]

Hi,

I am soon returning to Uni. I suffer some generalized anxiety but do not have a diagnosis. I do not match the clinical criteria. When I completed the enrollment I did not tick the box for mental health issues. I have completed a degree previously but did struggle with the stress of it and dropped out during the Honors year. Now I am wondering if I should have ticked the box to indicate I may need support but I am afraid of incurring unnecessary stigma. If anyone knows how the university may handle it. I would be pleased to hear. Thanks, Daisy101.

[Chris_B]

Hi Daisy,

Most universities should provide counselling or other supports as part of their student services - have a look on the website of the uni you attend.  It is not uncommon to struggle with stress while at uni, and it's in the uni's best interests to help you get the best out of your time there.

There are also online tools available to help you with some of the more common anxieties that arise during study - one programme that beyondblue endorses is called The Desk > https://www.thedesk.org.au (please copy and paste the link)

It would be best to get your supports in place and your confidence up before embarking on your study year, so you can concentrate fully on your work.

Does anyone else have thoughts on this?

best
CB

____________________________________________
Online Community Manager

[Pixie15]

Hi CB,

Thank you this link looks interesting. 

Cheers,

Daisy.

[Pixie15]

Hi,

Thought I would update in case anyone else was interested. I have made contact with the counselling service this can be done without contacting disability support. Although if you have a need for special consideration it would be good to do that. The counselling service is private and free so that is an extra bonus. Cheerio.

[geoff]

dear Daisy, I am curious as to how this counselling service is, compared to any professional assistance.

Have you spoken to them about not ticking the 'mental support', and whether you maybe should have, just saying. L Geoff. x

[Pixie15]

Hi Geoff,

I am not really an expert on professional assistance. The counselor I saw is a psychologist. I think the counselling service is the 'mental support'. Ticking the box just alerts the university about the statistics on what resources may be required, even if someone ticks the box it is still up to each individual to approach the support services that they might need to access. 

If I had a companion animal that I wanted to be able to accompany me on campus or other physical challenges to sight, hearing, mobility etc I would not hesitate to contact disability support to get the support I needed. But at this point I do not think it is necessary and it may just give me another thing to stress about. 

I will admit that with my experience so far I was probably unnecessarily worried about it. Comes with having the anxious features I think.

Oh and thank you for reminding me about my "Daisy" name. I might see if I can change back to that it has a nice ring to it. Cheers.

[Pixie15]

Hi again Geoff. Just noticed that I was using the Daisy handle when I first started this thread. Will have to stop changing my name I think I am confusing myself. Peace. 

[SavageRainbow]

I'm in a similar situation...I think I'm going to have to bring it up with my teacher at TAFE that I'm really struggling. How did the services you were provided help you? Did your teachers give you extra attention and support? 

[Pixie15]

Hi Savage Rainbow,

I have mainly just been accessing the counselling service at this point. There are other support services available if I should need them. The counselling has been good for talking through my situation and has helped with the confidence I need to ask for help for myself. You should not have to struggle alone.

I do not know what the teachers at TAFE are like these days. When I studied there some years back the teachers were all part time professionals. It depends on if you are struggling with the academic or social side. There should be learning support services you can access? Have you checked out your campus website to see if there is any information?

Sorry I cant be more help. 

[Pixie15]

Hi Christopher,

I have checked out your link for The Desk.

It is very useful.

Thank you.