BUILDING COLLEGE STUDENTS MENTAL HEALTH
Socialization
Going into college can be an exciting time in a student's life. Not only is it an opportunity to grow academically, but it is a chance to create new relationships and memories that can last forever. Socialization is shown to improve college students mental health by reducing anxiety and depression and providing social support. There are many ways for college students to enhance their socialization abilities to create a healthy environment.
Reduces Anxiety & Depression
Interacting and connecting with others can release a hormone in our body called oxytocin. This hormone is what lowers a persons anxiety level. We also have a neurotransmitter in our brains called dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for keeping people alert, focused, motivated, and happy.
Link: Research Article
Provides Social Support
Often times college students face a wide variety of different stressors. Whether it is pressure from academics, extracurricular activities, or financial challenges; it is important for students to be able to open up, project their energy outward, and be vocal about issues bothering them in trusting relationships.
Link:
Building A Healthy Community
There are numerous opportunities for college students to interact with each other including classes, student living, joining clubs, and attending campus events. All of these activities help play a role in creating a healthy student community.
Follow this link to get involved with clubs at UNLV Involvement Center
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