Stress causes, in case of a long-term high glucocorticoid concentration, increased blood pressure, inhibitions of immune and infection reactions, anxiety and depressive moods as well as disturbances of cognitive processes (learning) (Schandry, 2011, pp. 318-329). Serenity is the antipode of stress. Consequently it is important to develop strategies for yourself in your studies to mobilise composure during stressful periods. This is easier said than done. But there is professional support available.

According to a study (Hofmann, Sperth & Holm-Hadulla, 2017), 20 percent of students feel affected by psychological problems in their studies, 13 percent express a desire for counselling, and seven percent of them eventually seek professional help. Students are not more likely to be mentally ill than the general population but are twice as likely to consult psychotherapists. The experience with counselling services (low-threshold problem-centered help services; to be distinguished from psychotherapy) is very positive. Studies of the University of Mainz show that students with depressive moods and anxiety disorders make use of an average of 7 to 8 sessions; almost 70 percent of them experience improvements afterwards (ibid.). Students of the Technical University of Darmstadt are allowed to use the services of the Studierendenwerk in case of procrastination, exam anxiety, acute life crises, etc.

If required, you are welcome to contact the following persons, who will help you with their professional and life experience and support you with regard to contacting the Psychotherapeutic Counselling Center of the Studierendenwerk.