If you’re feeling stressed about school, relationships or family, Fresno City College’s mental health services can offer the relief you need.

Located in the Student Center Building in Room 216, the Psychological Services offer a variety of solutions and support for students dealing with anxiety or just concerned about their self-growth.

“Therapy is a service that everyone can benefit from, regardless of whether or not the student has a mental health issue they would like to address,” said Jacinda Hernandez, a post-doctoral fellow from Psychological Services. “For instance, some students seek therapy to engage in self-exploration or to gain skills to assist with self-growth.”

Students who want to take advantage of the services can start the process by completing a packet which can be found online or at the Psychological Services office.

Once completed, the packets must be returned, so the student is scheduled for a 15-20 minute screening. Eventually, students may make an appointment to see a clinician in a session.

Four to six sessions are offered to students who are new to Psychological Services and two to four sessions are offered for returning students.

Along with individual brief therapy, Psychological Services offers crisis intervention, group therapy, psychological testing and a referral network.

About one in five adults in the United States, or 43.8 million people, experience mental illness every year, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Nonetheless, some people have a negative outlook on seeking help.

“There are many potential reasons why the stigma of mental health persists, including that some may view mental health symptoms as threatening and uncomfortable,” Hernandez said. “Seeking mental health services can strengthen and support one’s ability to have healthy relationships, make good life choices, maintain physical health and well-being, handle the natural ups and downs of life, realize our potential, and much more.”  

Fresno City College students with health concerns can visit the Student Services building, Room 112 for more information and to make an appointment.

These services are provided to ensure that students who are able to juggle work and life.

“Oftentimes, the most difficult aspect of getting help is reaching out for support,” Hernandez said. “Many students report feeling more at ease with seeking psychological services after they have met with a clinician and have addressed their concerns.”

Hernandez said that the mind and the body are connected and affect each other. “Our brain controls our illness and wellness,” said Lisa Chaney, coordinator of health services. “So if we improve that, our body gets better too.”

Enrolled students who have paid the $19 health fee are eligible for these services.

The Active Minds club is another resource on campus for students seeking help with mental health or just looking for an outlet. The club meets every Friday at noon in the Psychological Services office.

For more information, contact Psychological Services at 559-443-8687. Both the psychology and health services offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.