By Ariana Davidson
For The Daily Athenaeum
Based on a new study done by several different organizations, including WalletHub, West Virginia has been ranked as one of the most stressful states to live in, based on examined depression rates, physical inactivity and self-reported health across the United States.
Additional research conducted by Enclave BioActives said that West Virginia has recently come in the number one spot. Researchers at the organization use data from America’s Health Rankings to give West Virginia a stress score of 96.2 out of 100. The state reported an adult physical inactivity rate of 28.7%, an adult depression rate of 30.2% and only 38.3% of adults described their health as “very good” or “excellent.”
While this research can be daunting, West Virginia University wants to reassure students that they have the necessary resources. Sara DiSimone, coordinator at West Virginia University’s Carruth Center for Counseling and Psychological Services, shared some of her thoughts about these newly released results.
“Students on WVU’s campus have access to many no-cost resources that provide opportunities to improve depression rates that most of the state would not,” DiSimone said. “This does not mean students do not experience depression, because they do. I would speculate that with access to additional resources, they are able to help themselves more effectively.”
DiSimone said that all students have access to facilities and programs that support both their physical and mental well-being while attending WVU. She mentioned the most popular resources, which include the Student Recreation Center, nutrition services, counseling, crisis support and the CARE Team, which helps connect students with campus and community resources.
While college is typically an exciting time for most students, DiSimone said it also introduces new stressors and anxiety as students adjust to living independently.
“Students beginning university are not only having to navigate being in a new place, meeting new people and starting new classes, but also discovering themselves and developing independence for the first time,” DiSimone said. “For some students, navigating financial strain and trying to balance employment with academic requirements is a big stressor.”
She also added that many students are facing new challenges for the first time. Some of which include learning to manage household responsibilities, build new friendships and care for themselves while going to class and trying to maintain their grades.
According to DiSimone, students should not wait until they are in crisis before seeking help.
“It’s always a good idea to talk to a professional sooner rather than later,” she said. “Therapy is not just for folks who are in a lot of distress or emergencies. There is never a bad time to talk with a therapist.”
She also said that students can look out for one another by looking for warning signs in their friends. This includes individuals finding everyday tasks more difficult, struggling to care for themselves, losing interest in once enjoyable activities and experiencing noticeable changes in mood.
DiSimone said demand for services at the Carruth Center has continued to increase over the past several years.
“We have seen the rate of use increase over the years,” she said. “WVU does a phenomenal job at prioritizing wellness by ensuring students have access to helpful resources. WVU has created a culture among the community in which it feels easier to ask and access support.”
The Carruth Center also offers various workshops, types of therapy and education to support students’ different needs. They are urging students to check out their resources and stay up to date with their social media.
Beyond counseling, DiSimone encourages students to make self-care a consistent part of their daily routine.
“Prioritizing self-care doesn’t always mean taking bubble baths or relaxing,” she said. “It means making the hard, uncomfortable decisions that keep us well, like getting enough sleep, eating breakfast and recognizing what your body needs.”
Furthermore, she mentioned that the Carruth Center wants to support those who need assistance, so friends never have to handle situations alone.
“If you are worried about someone’s mental health, call the 24/7 Carruth line and get supportive advice from a counselor,” DiSimone said. “You don’t have to have all of the answers. Sometimes being there to listen and helping connect someone to professional support is enough.”
As students prepare for another academic year, DiSimone hopes they remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
“You deserve to enjoy your time at WVU,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to use the on-campus resources available to you so you can live your best life.”
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