Student Wellness
Common Presenting Issues for Counselling


Signs and Indicators for Further Support

It is essential to be aware of your mental status and to seek timely help when necessary. Early intervention or preventive measures are always encouraged to reduce the potential development of a more severe psychological condition. 

When conducting a self-assessment, it is important to observe any potential changes that you have experienced and take note of how long such changes have been present. It is also good to ask if any daily functioning has been affected in order to briefly determine the level of urgency that you should reach out for help.

Poor Sleep Hygiene
e.g. insomnia or extreme sleepiness, frequent nightmares

Irregular Appetite
e.g. overeating or loss of appetite

Irregular Energy Level
e.g. hyperactivity or exhaustion

Impulsive Behaviours
e.g. inappropriate to the setting or situation, bizarre or strange behaviours

Mood Fluctuations
e.g. more irritable, excitable, sensitive, anxious, worry, or depressed

Changes in Performance
e.g. compulsive, erratic, or diminished academic performance or behaviours

Poor Attachment with Others
e.g. withdrawal from activities, social interaction, emotional involvement with others, family and friends, etc.

Poor Concentration & Ruminations
e.g. inability to concentrate or focus, persistent memory lapses, preoccupation, obsessive and ruminating thoughts

Risk-taking
e.g. impulsivity, reckless behaviours, dangerous or threatening behaviours, illegal acts, inappropriate alcohol consumption, substance use, etc.

Negative Outlook to the Future
e.g. pessimism, helplessness, hopelessness, suicidal thoughts

Other Physical stress symptoms
e.g. headaches, skeletal pain, gastrointestinal disturbances, cardiovascular problems, frequent illness or accidental injury, dizziness, panic feelings, physical shakiness, shortness of breath, or extreme weakness

Please be aware that if you are feeling suicidal or unsafe, you should reach out immediately and talk to one of our counsellors. You may refer to resources here for timely support if our office is closed. 

Common Presenting Issues

•  Adjustment issues (e.g. university life, hall culture, practicum, clerkship etc.)
•  Academic stress, performance or concerns
•  Interpersonal relationships (e.g. peers, staff/student, colleague, significant other etc.) 
•  Family issues
•  Physical health or medical conditions
•  Emotion or mood issues 
•  Psychological or mental health issues
•  Behavioral issues (e.g. time management, addictions, substance use, sleep and eating routine etc.)
•  Trauma or bereavement issues (e.g. abuse, neglect, loss etc.)
•  Work issues or career planning (e.g. work direction, burnout issues, adjustment to new job etc.)
•  Housing or accommodation issues (e.g. relocation, loss of housing etc.)
•  Finance
•  Legal issues
•  Crisis or safety issues 
•  Self-growth or personal development
•  Self-identity, sexual orientation, LGBTQ issues