When Life Feels Overwhelming 

When life’s demands feel like more than we can handle, we can feel stress and our mental health can feel off. Nearly all of us will experience this at some point in our lives, and finding help can make a big difference.  

Where we go for help will depend on what is happening. A good place to start may be talking to those we already have trusted connections with—like our friends and family, our primary care doctor, or a spiritual advisor.   

When Self-Help Isn’t Enough 

But if the problems in our life are stopping us from functioning well or feeling okay—and what we’ve tried on our own isn’t helping—then professional help might be the next best step.  

Some of us may already be connected with a counselor or another professional. But if we haven’t reached out for help before, it can be hard—or even scary—to make that first call. We might feel hesitant and think things like: 

What if they don’t believe me? 

I don’t want to talk about this to anyone.  

What will they think about me? 

I don’t want to look weak. 

It hurts too much to talk about it. 

We’re Not Alone 

These kinds of thoughts are completely normal and understandable. Still, we can gently remind ourselves that getting help really can make a big difference. Others have walked this path before, and we’re not alone. Even if it’s hard—and even if we’re not sure help is right for us—it might be worth exploring the possibility.  

How Professional Support Can Help 

If we’re willing to reach out, connecting with professionals can help us:  

Develop plans for solving problems  

Feel stronger in the face of tough times  

Change behaviors that hold us back  

Look at ways of thinking that affect how we feel  

Heal pains from our past  

Think about our goals  

Build self-confidence 

We’re Here for You! 

At KU, Jeff Stolz and Gail Tiemann from the Office of Mental Health and Wellbeing  can be a bridge to help and resources.

If you’ve never done this before, that’s okay. We’re happy to talk privately with you and explore next best steps and resources. You don’t have to figure it out alone—we do this every day, and it’s what we’re here for.  

You can reach us at wellness@ku.edu or by calling 785-864-8003. 

You never need to feel bad or worry that you’re bothering us by reaching out. Asking for help is a sign of strength. We’re here to listen, support, and walk alongside you. 

Finding the right kind of help can take time. Don’t be afraid to try different approaches until you find what works best for you. Healing and growth are personal journeys, and it’s okay if it takes a few tries to find the right fit. 

Crisis Resources

•   Dial 988 - Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - 24/7, free and confidential call, text, or chat hotline for mental health crises, emotional distress, suicidal thoughts, and substance use concerns.

•   Headquarters Kansas - a local 24/7 free, confidential mental health crisis hotline connecting callers directly to trained support professionals, along with offering longer term counseling online and in-person. Call: 785-841-2345.

KU Employee Support Resources 

•   Employee Assistance Program (EAP)-Free & confidential in-person or virtual counseling, among many other services, for benefits-eligible KU employees and their household members. 

•   HealthQuest Health Center in Topeka -Provides free to low-cost counseling, depending on your health plan, both virtual and in-person, to benefits-eligible KU employees, spouses, and dependent children. 

 •   KU Psychological Clinic -Offers sliding scale therapy for students, faculty, staff provided by graduate-level psychology students, as well as psychiatric assessments. 

Find a Therapist Through Your Health Plan 

Not sure what therapists and counselors are covered by your insurance?  Your insurance plan provides a searchable in-network provider list.

•   Blue Cross Blue Shield Kansas 

•   Aetna 

Other Great Resources 

•   National Institute of Mental Health – Not sure if you need extra support? This site can help you recognize signs that it might be time to reach out. 

•   Mental Health America – Tools 2 Thrive - Everyone faces challenges in life that can impact their mental health. This site offers information, tips, and practical tools to help improve mental health and build resilience. 

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