Under Pressure and Overwhelmed: Coping with Anxiety in College

by Christopher Vye, Kathlene Scholljegerdes, I. David Welch

Overview

Several recent studies have found that anxiety is increasing among college students. In today's competitive college environment, students frequently find themselves overwhelmed with worry and anxiety as they struggle to make the grade academically, fit in socially, discover who they are, and ponder their futures. This book helps students (and their parents and counselors) deal effectively with predictable anxieties associated with college. The authors offer suggestions and techniques, based on extensive research on the treatment of anxiety, to help students cope more effectively with the common sources of anxiety. In addition, the book describes the most common and debilitating disorders of anxiety, such as panic attacks, phobias, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, that affect more than 10% of Americans and most frequently have their onset during the college years.

The initial section of the book begins by describing the scope of the problem of anxiety as it relates to college students. The next section discusses the nature of anxiety reactions, noting the contribution of factors such as biological predisposition and developmental factors. Finally, the third section provides general strategies for managing anxiety such as doing relaxation exercises, challenging negative thoughts and perspectives, and facing fears. Vignettes about college students dealing with anxiety are included throughout.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780275990893
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	05/30/2007
Pages:	232
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.56(d)

About the Author

Christopher Vye is Associate Professor in the Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Saint Thomas. He is an experienced researcher and therapist in the area of anxiety.

Kathlene Scholljegerdes is Director of Career Services at Bethel University.

I. David Welch is Dean and Professor in Graduate School of Professional Psychology at the University of Saint Thomas.

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations     ix
Preface     xi
Acknowledgments     xiii
Introduction to the Problem     1
The Anxious Campus     3
The Many Faces of Anxiety     15
Anxiety and the College Student     31
Addressing the Sources of Anxiety in College Life     41
Adapting to Campus Life     43
Looking Good     55
Fitting In     65
Facing Shyness and Social Anxiety     79
Making the Grade     97
Planning for the Future     113
Managing Anxiety and Related Conditions: Solutions and Effective Approaches     125
Time Management     127
Thinking and Action Strategies     139
Relaxation and Lifestyle Strategies     157
Addressing Other Concerns     169
Helping Yourself and Letting Others Help You     183
Resources     197
Notes     201
Index     211

Editorial Reviews

Three psychology and career services scholars address students and their parents and counselors in this discussion of anxiety in college. They begin by describing how, why, and how many students are affected by anxiety. Further chapters discuss contributing internal and external factors, related disorders that often first present in college, and strategies for self-soothing and effectively coping. Among the strategies are relaxation exercises, techniques for transforming negative thoughts, time management skills, lifestyle assessment and adjustment, and strategies for seeking help.” —Reference & Research Book News

From the Publisher