Archive for April, 2025

Why More College Students Are Seeking Therapy

College is often described as “the best years of your life” — but for many students, that’s far from the whole story. Behind the excitement of independence, learning, and new experiences, an increasing number of students report struggling with mental health issues. Between academic demands, social pressure, financial stress, and the constant presence of social media, it’s no surprise that mental health challenges are on the rise across college campuses.

As a therapist who works with young adults, I’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming college life can be. But here’s the encouraging part: more and more students are reaching out for support. The stigma around student mental health is slowly breaking down, and help-seeking behavior is becoming more normalized — even celebrated.

The Growing Need for Mental Health Services for College Students

According to the Healthy Minds Study*, mental health concerns like anxiety and depression are some of the most common challenges college students face today. In fact, rates of students seeking mental health treatment on college campuses have steadily increased over the past decade. This rise doesn’t necessarily mean students are struggling more than before — it may also reflect growing awareness and a shift in attitudes toward therapy and self-care.

While mental health stigma hasn’t disappeared, many students now see therapy as a helpful, proactive tool — not a last resort. Colleges and universities are responding by expanding their mental health services, offering access to therapists, crisis resources, and wellness programming.

The downside to this increase in demand for counseling services means not every student who needs support is able to access on-campus mental health care when they need it, especially at schools with limited resources or long waitlists. Many college counseling centers have also had to set limits on how many sessions each student can have before being referred off-campus. That’s where mental health organizations like LynLake Centers for Wellbeing come in, as they can provide mental health services to students who would rather not (or simply cannot) wait until something opens up at their college counseling center, or who have met their session limit for the school year. 

How Mental Health Challenges Affect College Life

Mental health problems can affect every part of a student’s experience — from academics and sleep to relationships and daily functioning. Anxiety and depression, in particular, can make it harder to focus in class, maintain motivation, or feel connected to others.

Even more concerning is the number of students reporting debilitating mental health symptoms, including suicidal ideation or thoughts of self-harm. The Healthy Mind Study suggests that 13% of college students have experienced suicide ideations in the past year. Beyond that, 38% deal with moderate to severe depression and 34% experience moderate to severe anxiety. These numbers underscore the importance of proactive support, crisis care, and open conversations about mental health.

When a student receives mental health support early on — whether through therapy, group support, or other campus-based services — they’re more likely to cope in healthy ways and avoid reaching a breaking point. Mental health treatment isn’t just about managing symptoms; it’s about helping students build resilience, feel empowered, and navigate college life with more confidence.

The Double-Edged Sword of Social Media

It’s impossible to talk about student mental health without mentioning social media. While it can offer connection and community, it also plays a role in increasing mental health issues. Students often compare themselves to curated, filtered lives online, leading to self-doubt, anxiety, and a sense of isolation. 

But here’s the nuance: social media can also be a powerful platform for breaking down mental health stigma. Many students use it to share their experiences, advocate for wellness, and support their peers. Colleges and universities can harness this influence by promoting mental health resources and encouraging open, honest conversations in digital spaces.

Making It Easier to Seek Help

Despite progress, barriers still exist. Some students worry about being judged, aren’t sure if they can afford therapy, or simply don’t know what services are available. That’s why it’s so important for colleges to not only provide mental health services, but also clearly communicate how to access them. This means not only providing inclusive and confidential on-campus services, but also becoming familiar with off-campus resources and providers who are experienced in working with the college student population. 

Mental health is a public health issue, and the more it’s integrated into campus culture — through education, events, peer support, and faculty engagement — the easier it becomes for students to reach out.

Everyone on campus can play a role: staff, professors, RAs, and friends can all help normalize conversations around student mental health and guide others toward support.

Taking the First Step

If you’re a student facing mental health challenges — or someone who cares about one — know this: you are not alone, and support is available. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, academic stress, or uncertainty about the future, talking to a mental health professional can make a real difference.

Many colleges offer free or low-cost mental health resources. These may include counseling centers, group therapy, telehealth options, and referrals to off-campus providers. LynLake Centers for WellBeing, with locations near most colleges and universities in Minneapolis and St. Paul, proudly serves Bde Maka Ska, Saint Louis Park, and nearby communities with a team of mental health providers dedicated to helping college students thrive.

The Role of Relational Therapy in Supporting Polyamorous Relationships

Polyamorous relationships, a form of ethical non-monogamy, involve multiple people engaging in consensual romantic or sexual partnerships. These relationship structures create opportunities for deep emotional intimacy, personal growth, and expansive connection. But they can also bring unique challenges that deserve thoughtful attention and care.

Relational therapy can play a powerful role in supporting polyamorous partnerships and nontraditional relationship structures. With a focus on open communication, emotional well-being, and the health of each relationship dynamic, therapy offers a space for exploration, healing, and growth.
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Understanding Polyamorous Relationships

Polyamory emphasizes consent, transparency, and honesty in relationships involving more than two people. Unlike monogamous relationships, polyamory asks partners to engage with a wider range of emotional and logistical dynamics. This approach can look different for every individual or group involved — from open relationships to more structured relationship hierarchies.

Whatever the configuration, one thing remains central: clear communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to the emotional and mental health of everyone involved.

Common Challenges in Polyamorous Relationships

While every relationship has its own joys and difficulties, polyamorous partnerships may bring certain challenges to the forefront:

How Relational Therapy Supports Polyamorous Partnerships

Relational therapy provides a supportive space to explore the dynamics of non-traditional relationship structures. Whether you’re in a new open relationship or part of a long-established polyamorous partnership, therapy offers guidance that is nonjudgmental, inclusive, and affirming.

Here are some of the ways relationship therapy can support polyamorous partnerships:

Polyamory-Affirming Therapy at LynLake Centers for WellBeing

At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we believe that healthy relationships take many forms. Our team of therapists is committed to offering inclusive, identity-affirming care for clients in all types of relationships — including polyamorous, open, and ethically non-monogamous ones.

Many of our clinicians have lived experience or advanced training in supporting diverse relationship styles. For example:

We understand that your relationship structure doesn’t define your capacity for love, commitment, or growth. Our relationship therapy services are rooted in curiosity, compassion, and respect — helping you build stronger, more intentional connections.

Taking the Next Step

Whether you’re navigating new dynamics, unpacking old patterns, or simply looking to strengthen your emotional connections, therapy can be a valuable companion on the journey. You don’t have to have everything figured out — you just need a safe place to start.

If you and your partners are ready to explore relationship therapy or connect with a relationship therapist who understands the nuances of nontraditional relationship structures, we’re here to help.

Find a therapist who supports your relationship and your truth.

Reach out to LynLake Centers for WellBeing today to schedule a session with one of our affirming providers—serving St. Paul, Minneapolis, Saint Louis Park, and surrounding communities.

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Balancing Academics and Mental Health

Small, consistent actions can help create stability and resilience during high-pressure seasons. Here are practical strategies to support both academic performance and overall well-being:

  1. Practice mindfulness and deep breathing.
    Mindfulness and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress, calm the nervous system, and bring focus to the present. Just a few minutes each day can make a noticeable difference in managing academic stress and anxiety. 
  2. Move your body.
    Most people know that morning exercise can help with focus and energy, but exercising after a stressful day can actually help reduce stress and anxiety. It’s called “Completing the Stress Cycle,” and is one of the quickest and most effective ways to reduce the physical effects of stress, calming you down and resetting both your mind and body.
  3. Set realistic goals.
    Setting clear, attainable academic goals helps reduce overwhelm. Breaking larger assignments into smaller tasks and setting deadlines along the way allows for steady progress while minimizing pressure.
  4. Prioritize self-care.
    Maintaining mental and physical health is essential. Getting enough sleep, engaging in movement, and making time for joy or rest can help prevent burnout and improve academic focus. 
  5. Use effective time management tools.
    A clear plan can help reduce last-minute stress. Using calendars, apps, timers, or study blocks creates structure while leaving space for rest and flexibility.
  6. Build a support system.
    Having trusted people to talk to — friends, mentors, advisors — makes it easier to manage stress. Talking things through can bring emotional relief and offer helpful perspectives on academic or personal challenges.
  7. Engage in healthy coping strategies.
    Coping with academic pressures in a healthy way means finding habits that are genuinely restorative. Listening to music, journaling, or taking a walk can support mental clarity and balance.
  8. Eat a balanced diet.
    Nutrition plays a vital role in academic performance. A diet rich in whole foods supports energy, memory, and mood — all of which are essential for academic success.

Finding Balance for Long-Term Success

Long-term academic success depends not only on effort, but also on sustainability. When mental health is nurtured alongside academic goals, students are more likely to feel motivated, focused, and fulfilled.

Recognizing the signs of stress or burnout early allows for proactive support. Mental health services, wellness programs, and peer support can make a meaningful difference. Whether through a campus counseling center or a community provider, mental health support is a valuable resource — not a last resort.

Take the First Step: Support for Student Mental Health

Balancing academics and mental health takes intention — and often, the first step is the hardest. If academic pressures are starting to feel overwhelming, or if stress and anxiety are interfering with daily life, know that support is available. Many colleges and universities offer accessible counseling services, academic support, and wellness resources. Community-based providers and online therapy platforms can also be valuable options.

Success isn’t just about grades — it’s about growth, well-being, and building a life that feels sustainable and meaningful. Prioritize your health. Support your goals. Both matter — and both are possible.

At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, support is designed to meet you where you are. With an integrative, whole-person approach to care, services are available for those navigating academic stress, anxiety, burnout, or larger life transitions. Offerings include individual therapy, relationship and family counseling, medication management, and mind-body practices like acupuncture and yoga therapy.

Care is collaborative and personalized, focused on understanding each person’s needs, values, and goals. Whether you’re just beginning to explore mental health support or are ready to make a change, LynLake Centers for WellBeing is here to help.

Taking care of your mental health is one of the most important investments you can make—for your education, your future, and your overall well-being. LynLake Centers for WellBeing is here to support you in Bde Maka Ska, Saint Louis Park, and surrounding communities.

How Therapy Can Help with Identity Exploration

Identity development is a lifelong journey. It’s shaped by upbringing, culture, community, lived experiences, and personal exploration. Psychologist Erik Erikson, who theorized the stages of psychosocial development, emphasized that forming a strong sense of identity is a central task of adolescence — but it doesn’t stop there. Many continue to experience shifts in their identity throughout adulthood, especially during times of transition or self-discovery.

Some people move through this process with clarity, but for many, identity formation is complex and nonlinear. The journey can involve letting go of old labels, challenging external expectations, or questioning long-held beliefs. This is where support becomes essential — not to give answers, but to create space for honest reflection and growth.

How Therapy Supports Identity Exploration

Therapy can be a valuable tool for those navigating identity exploration, offering consistent support and skilled guidance through a process that is often deeply personal. Here’s how therapy can help:

  1. Creating a safe and supportive environment
     Mental health professionals offer a space where individuals can explore their identity without judgment. This allows for open and honest conversations about thoughts and feelings, which are often difficult to share elsewhere.
  2. Navigating gender identity and identity issues
     For many, gender identity can be a source of deep questioning and emotional complexity. Others may struggle with personal, cultural, or professional identities. Therapy provides a confidential space to explore these experiences at one’s own pace, supporting self-acceptance and clarity.
  3. Understanding the role of social and cultural influences
    Cultural norms and societal expectations can strongly shape how people view themselves. Therapy can help disentangle these influences from inner truth, empowering individuals to form a more authentic and personally meaningful sense of identity.
  4. Developing a strong sense of self
    Therapists support clients in building a strong foundation of self-awareness, self-compassion, and confidence. Through this process, it becomes easier to make choices aligned with one’s values and sense of identity.
  5. Supporting the ongoing process of identity development
    Identity exploration isn’t a one-time event. As life changes, so does self-understanding. Whether navigating new roles, shifting beliefs, or facing societal pressures, therapy offers ongoing support to help maintain a sense of stability and integrity through growth.

When It Feels Difficult to Define Who You Are

Struggling to understand identity — or to feel at peace with it — is not a sign of failure. It’s a deeply human experience. Identity issues often surface in moments of change, pressure, or internal conflict, and seeking support during these times can be both grounding and empowering.

Therapy offers space for reflection, curiosity, and healing. It doesn’t require having everything figured out — it simply starts with the willingness to explore.

Identity Support at LynLake Centers for WellBeing

Navigating identity exploration can be a powerful but vulnerable journey. At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, support is available for individuals who are questioning, evolving, or simply seeking to better understand themselves. Most of our providers are passionate about providing unconditional support and assistance for their clients as they explore all aspects of identity. Therapy at LynLake is rooted in compassion, inclusivity, and the belief that everyone deserves a space to be seen and supported. 

LynLake offers an integrative, whole-person approach to care — including individual therapy, gender-affirming support, relationship and family counseling, and mind-body therapies. Whether working through an identity crisis, unpacking societal or cultural pressure, or building a stronger sense of identity, clients are met with care that respects their unique experiences and values.

Therapists collaborate with clients to help explore identity in a way that feels safe, affirming, and meaningful. The process is not about rushing to find the “right” label, but about making space for self-awareness, growth, and personal truth.

Take the First Step

The journey toward a stronger, more grounded sense of identity starts with space to reflect and the support to do it safely. Therapy can help clarify thoughts, reduce distress, and foster a deeper connection to one’s self — not just who others expect you to be.

If questions about identity are becoming difficult to carry alone, consider reaching out to a trusted mental health professional. At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, support is available every step of the way for individuals in Bde Maka Ska, Saint Louis Park, and surrounding communities.