These days, college students are put to the test on more issues then just their academics; from addiction, stress, sleep disorders, depression and so much more. Many students are afraid to admit a problem, because with this new found freedom away from high school, comes the belief that they are on their own in all aspects of life. Fortunately, this is not true; there are plenty of organizations locally willing to help students, especially support groups.
When the word “therapy” is mentioned the usual response is a grimace or a roll of the eyes because the stereotype that has been added to the phrase “group therapy.” In reality, the most ideal assistance for a student is group therapy, which has many benefits including the extra encouragement and support from members that you wouldn’t receive in a one-on-one meeting with a therapist and meeting new friends who understand what you are going through.
These issues you are dealing with, whether it be an eating disorder or anxiety and stress, are very serious and need to be taken care of properly. These problems you will probably start noticing, if you haven’t already, will affect every part of your daily life, from your work ethic to academics to your social life. Whether you are one of the 38%, according to a recent UCLA state-wide survey, of college students in California who are feeling overwhelmed or you know a friend who is dealing with a serious issue there is help available.
Moorpark College campus has a branch of Alcoholics Anonymous which meets every Wednesday from 6:00pm-7:00pm in room A138. New members are always welcome and this group also helps those dealing with narcotic addictions, which can be deadly serious. According to Sharon Manakas, Moorpark Health Center Administrator, not only can this support group help you but also help “your commitment to sobriety,” which “is what will make you successful.”
There are many groups out there striving every day to help people with their problems. Some of these groups include the New Beginnings Counseling Center, and the Ventura Community Based Outpatient Clinic.
The New Beginnings Counseling Center has been serving Simi Valley, Thousand Oaks, Ventura, Westlake, and Oxnard, treating eating disorders since 1984. They have multiple support groups that help those who are dealing with an eating disorder, stress, and body image issues. You can learn more information at their website: www.newbeginningscounseling.net
For military veterans there is help at the Ventura Community Based Outpatient Clinic which has plenty of programs for local veterans such as the Women Veterans Health Center, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Program and many others. They are located on North Ashwood Ave in Ventura and can be reached at (805) 658-5800.
Another great source of information for students are the health centers located on their respective college campuses, the Health Center located in the Administration Building, Room 111 at Moorpark College, also the Student Health Center at Oxnard College on the first floor of the Administration Building, and the Ventura College Health Center located in the CRC Building, Room 108, can help students who are dealing with a number of issues, such as stress, depression or anxiety.
