EPOCH’s Essential Mental Health Checklist for College Students

Your mental health should always be a priority, whether you’re just starting your college experience or returning for another year. After all, to learn and do your best, you need to feel prepared to face every day’s challenges. 

Regularly checking in with yourself can help you identify potential issues early on and find the support you need. Now, a quick check-in isn’t a substitute for professional help, but it can help you build a picture of your own mental well-being. Need help getting started? Check out EPOCH’s mental health checklist college students can refer to, to ensure that mental health remains a priority. 

1. Mood and Emotions:

• Are you experiencing mood swings that affect your daily activities?
• Do you often feel sad, hopeless, or excessively worried?
• Do you regularly feel moments of joy or happiness?

2. Stress and Anxiety:

• Are you feeling overwhelmed by academic and personal responsibilities?
• Do you find it difficult to manage stress, leading to things like headaches or insomnia?
• Are you frequently anxious or experiencing panic attacks?

3. Sleep Patterns:

• Are you getting enough sleep to feel rested and alert during the day?
• Do you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or waking up too early?
• Are you maintaining a consistent sleep schedule?

4. Eating Habits:

• Are you eating regular, balanced meals or have your eating habits changed?
• Have you noticed weight loss or gain?
• Are you struggling with thoughts of restricting food or overeating?

5. Social Interactions:

• Are you maintaining connections with friends and family or have you become socially isolated?
• Do you feel a sense of belonging within your college community?
• Are you experiencing difficulties in forming or maintaining relationships?

6. Academic Performance:

• Are you able to concentrate on your schoolwork and complete assignments on time?
• Have you noticed a decline in your academic performance?

7. Physical Health:

• Are you engaging in regular physical activity or exercise?
• Have you noticed changes in your physical health, such as unexplained aches or pains?
• Are you taking care of any chronic health issues you may have?

8. Self-Care and Coping Strategies:

• Are you engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation?
• Do you have healthy coping mechanisms for managing stress, such as mindfulness, deep breathing or creative outlets?
• Are you setting aside time for self-care, even during busy periods?

9. Self-Esteem and Body Image:

• Do you have a positive view of yourself and your abilities?
• Are you struggling with negative body image or low self-esteem?
• Are you comparing yourself to others in unhealthy ways, especially on social media?

10. Future Outlook:

• Do you have goals and aspirations that motivate you?
• Are you feeling optimistic about your future, or do you feel stuck and uncertain?
• Are you seeking out opportunities for personal and academic growth?

11. Seeking Help:

• Are you aware of the mental health resources available on your college campus?
• Are you open to seeking professional help if your mental health concerns become overwhelming?
• Do you have a support system in place, including friends, family, or mentors, with whom you can discuss your feelings?

Regularly assessing your mental health using EPOCH’s mental health checklist for college students can help you recognize patterns and changes in your well-being. Remember that mental health is an ongoing journey, and seeking help when needed is a sign of strength, not weakness. And some days will just feel or look different than others—and that’s totally okay.

If you find that your mental health is suffering, reach out to campus counseling services, mental health professionals, or trusted individuals in your life. Your well-being is a priority, and taking care of your mental health will contribute to a fulfilling college experience.

At EPOCH Clemson, we offer living environments that allow you to live a healthier and more focused life throughout your college years. Contact us today to learn more about our options.