I am worried about my roommate. She is studying all the time and doesn’t sleep or eat some days. What should I do to help her? She was tense last year, but this year she is too intense.
- Worried
Dear Worried,
We first want to thank you for writing. You are a good roommate! Our answer is in two parts:
First, you are correct to be concerned. Lack of sleep and nourishment quickly leads to less effective study and heightened stress levels. Your roommate needs to know there are many resources on campus to help her feel better and less stressed. Academically she could get help through the Advising and Learning Assistance Center and her professors during their office hours. To help balance her personal well being, she could visit the Student Health Center, meeting with Terri the Health Educator, or someone at the Counseling Center. She might also find visiting with the chaplain of her faith a positive experience. Tweedle also reminds you that her parents and/or siblings might also be a good resource. If you do not feel comfortable suggesting these, you can seek help from your RA or Terri to facilitate choices.
Second, Dee wants to emphasize that the above options are good for helping your roommate, but the first thing you need to do is take care of yourself. You need to be well in order to model and assist her toward a healthier lifestyle. Taking advantage of these same resources can benefit you as well.
Thanks again for writing…you took a very important first step. We thank you on behalf of your roommate!
Editor’s Note: If you would like to submit a question to Tweedle and Dee please e-mail poly@rpi.edu. Anonymity will be maintained.
