One of the most challenging, changing and turbulent times in our lives is the step we take from childhood to adulthood. It is often a time of great hormonal change, pressure from studying for exams and a university place often bring a move away from parents and long-established friends.

For some, this is exciting and rewarding, but for others this time of life can take its toll on their well-being. This can result in an increase in OCD type rituals, which previously weren’t overly intrusive, it can mean an increase in general anxiety, a drop in self-confidence leading to social reluctance or very specific anxiety focussing around exam performance. The first year of university and all the change this brings, can also be challenging and by the Easter break, it can result in a young person who is struggling to hold things together.

Managing exam stress

It is expected that for most people, exams bring some level of stress/anxiety. However, for others the levels of stress/anxiety can be debilitating. This can be most intrusive to gaining good exam results and can be very upsetting to the young person experiencing it. The result of such can be detrimental for confidence and can mean months of sleep intrusion, loss of appetite, tearfulness, social isolation and panic.

The opportunity to discuss fears and get to the bottom of what’s causing the anxiety can be extremely helpful. This insight along with lots of strategies can really turn things around.

Reducing general anxiety/OCD

This transitional stage of life brings with it; change, increased independence, responsibility and big decisions. These can all cause some level of anxiety but when this anxiety spins out of control, it can mean the symptoms of anxiety can negatively intrude into the normal functioning of life. In addition, closely linked with peak periods of anxiety can be OCD type activities. These can range from overly pre-occupied with checking, or hygiene or intrusive thinking.

Again, gaining insight and discussing the anxieties can be extremely helpful. This can be further aided by cognitive behavioural therapy CBT and a series of tailor made strategies to manage the symptoms. It is surprising how quickly the young adult can begin to feel they are back in control of their thoughts and feelings.

Online programmes for university students to access when on campus or when home with parents.

One of the difficult aspects for a university student to manage during a therapy process,is thelimited time they spend in any one location, with a regular swap between a university address and parents being the norm. We do not allow this chopping and changing to interfere with the process and progress of the therapy. We accommodate such by offering online sessions via Skype or FaceTime, all the student needs is a quiet space and a good Wi-Fi connection.

It is also worth highlighting that the majority of private healthcare family insurance policies do provide some level of cover for psychology services, so you may be able to have the sessions funded in this manner.