Take a deeper dive into the various health topics impacting College students today for more information and resources!
Emotional, Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
College can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also bring stress, anxiety, loneliness, and other mental health challenges. At Siena, we believe that seeking help is a sign of strength, and students are encouraged to prioritize their emotional well-being just as much as their academic success.
- To schedule an appointment at the Siena University Counseling Center ,
- Call 518-783-2342 and speak to the office coordinator;
- stop by Foy 110 to schedule in-person;
- or request an initial appointment online.
- Appointments can be scheduled Monday-Friday from 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (closed 12-1)
- If you are calling over the weekend or after business hours, please leave a detailed voicemail including your name and number, and our office coordinator will call you back to schedule.
If you or another Siena Student are struggling with suicidal ideations contact Siena Public Safety at x2999 24/7 to be connected with the counselor on call
Want to learn more about how to help a friend who may be struggling with suicidal ideation? Consider taking QPR Training. Contact cdockum@siena.edu to learn about upcoming training opportunities, offered in person or virtually.
Resources for College Students:
- https://collegeguide.nami.org/
- https://www.thementalhealthcoalition.org/college-mental-health-toolkit/
- https://www.nami.org/kids-teens-and-young-adults/young-adults/mental-health-in-college/
Alcohol
How You Can Help Someone Suffering from Alcohol Poisoning
- Be Heroic. Be a Saint. Be an Active Bystander.
- Be aware of the danger signs for alcohol poisoning.
- Don't just watch and wait – notice the event, interpret it as a problem, feel responsible to act, know what to do and intervene safely.
- Call Public Safety for help (518-783-2999). Do not hesitate because you don't want to get your friend into trouble. A person with alcohol poisoning IS already in trouble and EVERY SECOND COUNTS!
- Siena Welfare of the Community (Amnesty) policy has got your back! It is safe to get help for someone who has had too much to drink, even if you have been drinking too
Looking for Resources For Yourself?
- https://oasas.ny.gov/
- https://www.collegedrinkingprevention.gov/
- https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/
- https://www.alcoholscreening.org/#/home
Stress Management and Self Care
College can be both exciting and stressful, and it is important for students to prioritize self-care and healthy stress management throughout their academic journey. Balancing classes, work, relationships, and extracurricular involvement can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why taking time to rest, recharge, and care for your overall well-being is essential to success both inside and outside the classroom.
At Siena, students have access to a variety of resources designed to support their mental, emotional, and physical wellness. The Health Promotion Office offers wellness programming, stress management workshops, mindfulness activities, self-care events, and educational trainings throughout the year. Students can also utilize the Siena Student Wellness Room as a quiet space to decompress, relax, and recharge during busy days on campus.
Quit Smoking/Vaping
College can be a time when students experience new environments, social situations, and stressors that may influence decisions around vaping, tobacco, and cannabis use. While some students may use these substances to cope with stress or fit into social settings, it is important to understand how they can impact physical health, mental well-being, sleep, focus, and academic performance.
At Siena, students who are interested in reducing or quitting vaping, smoking, tobacco, or cannabis use have access to supportive, non-judgmental resources. The Health Promotion Office provides education, wellness coaching, prevention programming, and referrals to additional campus and community support services. Students can also participate in programs such as BASICS, which encourages students to reflect on their substance use and make informed decisions in a confidential setting.
Quitting or cutting back can be challenging, but students do not have to navigate the process alone. Whether someone is ready to quit completely or simply wants to learn more about healthier coping strategies, Siena is committed to supporting students in making choices that promote their overall health and well-being.
Looking to Quit or Cut Back your use?
- https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/e-cigarettes/youth-quitting.html
- https://truthinitiative.org/exprogram
- https://www.edumed.org/resources/how-to-quit-smoking/
Other Drugs
College students may face pressures, stress, or personal challenges that can sometimes lead to the misuse of substances, including opioids and other drugs. Substance use can impact academic success, relationships, mental health, and physical well-being, but support and recovery resources are available.
At Siena, students can access supportive and non-judgmental resources through the Health Promotion Office, Counseling Services, and campus wellness initiatives.
Educational opportunities such as Narcan administration training and access to fentanyl/xylazine test strips are also available as part of Siena’s commitment to student safety and well-being.
Recovery looks different for everyone, and taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming. Whether a student is considering reducing their use, seeking treatment, supporting a friend, or looking for recovery resources, Siena encourages students to reach out for support and connect with available campus and community resources.
Resources
- Siena Counseling Center- Foy Hall 109
- OASAS.ny.gov
- https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/treatment/opioid-use-disorder.htmoasa
- Narcan boxes located in the SSU( near the ATM), and in each townhouse and residence hall
Healthy Sleep
Sleep is a foundational part of student well-being and plays a critical role in academic success, mental health, physical health, and overall energy levels. However, college life often makes it challenging to maintain consistent and healthy sleep habits due to busy schedules, stress, screen time, and social activities. Prioritizing sleep can improve concentration, mood, memory, and resilience when managing daily demands.
The Health Promotion Office offers education on sleep hygiene, stress management, and self-care strategies that can help students improve their sleep quality. Campus wellness programming and the Student Wellness Room also provide opportunities for students to slow down, reset, and recharge when they need a break.
Small changes—such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, reducing late-night screen use, limiting caffeine, and creating a calming bedtime routine,can make a meaningful difference.
Resources to get better sleep
- https://jedfoundation.org/resource/goodnight-to-all-nighters-your-guide-to-actually-getting-sleep-in-college/
- https://sleep.hms.harvard.edu/education-training/public-education/sleep-and-health-education-program/sleep-health-education-40