Coping with Crisis and Stress

A day in the life of a college student has new meanings in these times. Each person responds to crisis differently. It is important though, to understand the potential reactions that accompany crisis and to know how to care for yourself during times of extreme stress. The information below has been created to assist you during times of stress and crisis. You may also check out the resources listed below.

Helping Students in Uncertain Times

Strategies for Managing Anxiety in Uncertain Times

Managing Your Anxiety about H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu)

Tips for College and University Students: Managing Your Distress in the Aftermath of Shootings

How to talk about a Crisis in Class -- Tips for Faculty

Coping With Reactions to Mass Tragedy and the Aftermath

Managing Traumatic Stress: Tips for Recovering From Natural Disasters - American Psychological Association

Stress Tip Sheet 

Addtional Resources

Typical Responses to Crisis

Emotional Responses

• Shock or denial
• Anger or irritability
• Feelings of hopelessness
• Depression
• Fear and anxiety
• Mood changes
• Numbness
• Guilt
• Grief

Behavioral Responses

• Changes in activity level
• Social withdrawal or isolation
• Eating or appetite changes
• Sleep disturbance/ insomnia
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Inability to relax

Cognitive Responses

• Forgetfulness
• Difficulty making decisions
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dreams or nightmares of the event
• Confusion
• "Flashbacks" of crisis event
• Self-doubt

Physical Responses

• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Headaches and/or back pain
• GI distress, nausea, vomiting
• Muscle tension
• Trembling
• Rapid heart beat
• Sweating or chills
• Dizziness
• Exaggerated startle response
• Weakness

Tips for Coping and Self-Care

• Reach out and make contact with others.
• Talk with friends and loved ones.
• Recognize and accept your feelings as "normal" responses to extreme circumstances.
• Express your feelings appropriately; keep a journal to help in the process.
• Structure your time.
• Maintain your usual schedule as much as you can.
• Get extra rest and set aside time to relax.
• Eat regular balanced meals even if you don't feel hungry.
• Exercise or participate in some regular physical activity.
• Delay major decisions or changes in your life.
• Avoid excessive use of alcohol or drugs.
• Contact Counseling and Psychological Services at 703-993-2380, or a mental health professional if symptoms persist.

How to Support a Friend in Crisis

• Reach out and spend time with the person in crisis.
• Make time to talk, encourage the person to express his/her feelings, and listen.
• Respect the person's need to spend time alone, too.
• Help with everyday tasks where possible...run errands, share a meal, pick up mail, care for a pet, etc.
• Don't try to offer false cheer or "fix things"...listening non-judgmentally to another is a powerful form of support.
• Help the person connect with supportive resources on campus and in the community.
• Encourage the person to contact the Counseling Center or seek other professional help when appropriate.
• Take care of yourself and know your own limits.

Thank you to Mary Washington College Psychological Services Center for sharing prepared printed materials with Mason.

Campus and Community Resources

Mason Counseling and Psychological Services
(703) 993-2380, SUB I, Room 3129

Mason Student Health Services
(703) 993-2831, SUB I, Rooms 214-219

Dean of Students
(703) 993-2884, SUB I, Room 4211

Diversity Programs and Services
(703) 993-2700

Woodburn Community Mental Health Center
(703) 573-0523

CrisisLink Hotline
(703) 527-4077