Back to School Mental Health Tips for UCSC Students This September

As students return to the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) this September, the excitement of a new academic year often comes with stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. At Coastal Breeze Mental Health, we understand the unique pressures college students face and are here to help you prioritize mental well-being as you transition back to campus life.

The Fall Quarter Reset: A Fresh Start with New Challenges

Whether you're a freshman navigating your first time away from home or a returning student juggling a full course load, relationships, and jobs, the start of fall quarter can feel intense. Many students experience:

• Academic pressure and imposter syndrome

• Social anxiety or loneliness

• Sleep disruption and poor eating habits

• Mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD

Tips for Maintaining Mental Wellness This Quarter

Taking care of your mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. Small daily actions can make a big difference:

• Build a daily routine: Sleep, meals, classes, and study time should be balanced with breaks and rest.

• Get outside: UCSC’s natural beauty—redwood trails, ocean views, and gardens—can calm the nervous system and boost mood.

• Join clubs and events: Community is a critical part of resilience. Check out UCSC’s student orgs and campus events.

• Stay connected: Keep in touch with family, friends, and roommates. Open communication reduces isolation.

• Know when to ask for help: It’s okay to not be okay. Reach out to a professional if things feel unmanageable.

When to Seek Professional Help

You don’t need a diagnosis to talk to a mental health provider. If you notice persistent symptoms like:

• Trouble focusing or completing tasks

• Loss of interest in social activities or school

• Panic attacks or frequent anxiety

• Mood swings or irritability

• Problems with sleep or appetite

…it may be time to check in with a mental health professional.

Coastal Breeze Mental Health Supports UCSC Students

Located on the Central Coast, Coastal Breeze Mental Health provides confidential, compassionate psychiatric care for students seeking support with:

• Anxiety and panic disorders

• Depression

• ADHD

• Trauma-related symptoms

• Sleep difficulties and stress management

We offer telehealth appointments and flexible scheduling to fit around your class and work schedule. Our team is experienced in supporting college students and can coordinate care with UCSC’s on-campus services if needed.

Start the School Year Strong

This September, take time to set your mental health goals as seriously as your academic ones. At Coastal Breeze Mental Health, we’re here to help you thrive in and out of the classroom.

Contact us today to schedule your first appointment and start the quarter with clarity, balance, and support.

Coastal Breeze Mental Health serves college students across Santa Cruz County with psychiatric evaluation, therapy referrals, and medication management. We are here for you—because mental health matters year-round.