Academic Planning

In order for individuals with co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders to succeed in an academic program, they need to be able to manage the pressures of reaching academic expectations. This includes being able to organize their schedule, manage their illnesses, balance their social life and cope with peer pressure.  In addition, individuals need to learn ways to cope effectively with stress and to establish an identity for themselves.  For individuals who experience mental illness and substance use disorders, these tasks can be particularly challenging.  Organization skills, motivation, stress management and socialization are all areas that are particularly affected by these disorders.  Providing support, outreach and treatment during transition to college, during school terms, and back home is essential to success and recovery.