The start of the semester can be exciting — new classes, new goals, and a fresh start. It can also be hectic as you adjust to new schedules, assignments, work, and everything else competing for your time. 

As you settle into the semester, remember to make your mental health a priority, too. Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to mean making major changes. Small habits — taking a break, getting outside, connecting with someone you trust, or just noticing when you’re feeling overwhelmed — can help you manage stress and stay grounded this fall. 

Each month, ACC will share practical mental health tips and highlight resources available to support you throughout the semester.

3 Mental Health Tips for August. 1. Check in with yourself. Take a few minutes each day to notice how you’re feeling. Stress and anxiety can sneak up on you fast. Use ACC’s Mental Health Self-Support Guide for daily quick tips, coping strategies, and other mental health resources. 2. Build in small breaks. When school, work, and other responsibilities pile up, it can be tempting to keep pushing through. Even a short break can help you reset. Step away from your screen, take a short walk, stretch, or spend a few minutes doing something you enjoy. 3. Ask for support when you need it. You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis to talk with a mental health professional. Counseling can be a place to work through stress, anxiety, relationships, grief, academic pressures, or anything else affecting your well-being.

Mental Health Support at ACC

Currently enrolled ACC students have access to free, short-term mental health counseling services. Licensed mental health counselors can provide support and help you navigate challenges that may be affecting your personal life or academic success. You can meet with a mental health counselor on campus or virtually. Click here to request an appointment.

24/7 Virtual Mental Health Counseling

If you’re working or attending classes during the day and need a convenient, virtual counseling option, we got you! We’ve partnered with TimelyCare, and it’s a great way to get the support you need when you need it. Whether you need to talk to someone late at night, on a weekend, or around a busy work schedule, you can connect with a virtual mental health counselor anytime, anywhere, through your TimelyCare account.

Visit timelycare.com/austincc and log in with your ACC student email to get started.

Therapeutic and Wellness Groups

New this fall, Mental Health Counseling Services has launched two new therapeutic and wellness groups: 

Both groups give students a low-pressure way to connect with others, build coping skills, and support their mental health in a group setting. No previous experience with Dungeons & Dragons or crafting is required. 

Looking for other mental health support? Visit austincc.edu/mentalhealth to learn more about mental health counseling, events, and resources.