student counseling office

considering whether or not to seek help?

When You Feel Overwhelmed

Many people hesitate to ask others for advice. At the same time, many issues cannot be solved singlehandedly.
Most of us know what we can and cannot do. When we encounter something we cannot handle by ourselves, we do not go to extremes. Usually we ask for help and are willing to admit that we are at wit’s end. However, some of us might think “I should solve my issues all by myself. I am too proud to reveal my weakness to others.” This attitude may be valuable in some cases, yet the more you hold onto that attitude, the greater the damage you incur when you find something just does not work. And you may not be able to recover. Those who find it easier to accept failure and seek help from others are probably resilient to adversity. In some instances you may be tormenting yourself. People in adversity tend to have a narrower outlook. It may be a good idea to get help from others to become able to reflect on things from different perspectives when you feel you cannot see the way out alone.
If you have any problemsyou cannot solve by yourself, seek advice from others as soon as you can. Difficulties can affect anybody.

If You Are Hesitant About Asking for Advice, Please Know That~

  • There is no shame or loss in asking for advice.
  • Being able to ask for help when needed is a sign of being a responsible adult.
  • You can rely on others when you know your own strengths/weaknesses.
  • The more you take up new or difficult challenges, the more likely you will feel anxious or down.
  • Many people have difficulties in academics and personal relations (with friends, professors, or in clubs/school societies, and part-time jobs). This is perfectly normal.
  • Mental stress is often called the “common cold of the heart.” It means that the “feeling blue” or “being too worried to sleep” are nothing extraordinary, much less the result of “laziness.”  It can happen to anybody. Do not let it eat you up from the inside. Go and seek advice now.
  • You can visit Student Counseling Office not only for consultations about your personal difficulties but also for improvement of your academic or research performance.

Student Counseling Office TOP Useful Resources

Become a peer supporter

Hokkaido University takes applications for peer supporters at designated times throughout the year. Peer supporters are paid part-time staff (administrative assistant) of the university. Check out the peer support unit web site or come to the Center for more information.

Thinking about visiting us?

If you would like to make a counseling appointment, please call us, email us, or even just drop by in person. Students with appointments are given priority, so we recommend making an appointment.