Are drinking and college synonymous? Can you name a movie with college students where alcohol and partying are not pictured? Let us know when you find one!  While culture promotes the college drinking lifestyle, what do students really think about it? Does it help you find friends? Date with the best intentions? Ease social anxiety?  For many young people heading off to college, anxiety becomes more pronounced and may reach new levels away from home and all that is familiar. Becoming part of a new community requires social interactions and alcohol is often touted as a balm for the socially anxious. It has become a staple in social gatherings…”Let’s grab a drink” or “let’s hit the bars or frats.” A drink in hand is expected and some might say, “required” in any college social setting.  In today’s episode, we talk to Abby about her experience with anxiety, diagnosed at 8 years of age, alcohol, and managing her symptoms. This girl knows this subject well! Her insight is poignant about the relationship of anxiety and alcohol. Tune in to hear from someone who has lived the ups and downs of anxiety in college. She found what works for her–and it’s not medication. We eagerly wrote down her list of tools and tips–hopefully, you will too. Many of us can relate to this issue…please know, you are not alone!    RESOURCES **If you struggle with severe anxiety and/or substance abuse, please reach out to your college or local counseling center for help or call *988 if you feel you need immediate crisis counseling.   TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Welcome and Trigger Warning 01:13 Meet the Hosts and Today's Topic: Anxiety in Youth 02:38 Abby's Journey with Anxiety: From Childhood to Therapy 04:51 The Impact of Empathy on Anxiety 06:07 Exploring Therapy and Medication for Anxiety 08:07 Anxiety Triggers and Causes 14:54 The Role of Family and Initial Therapy Experiences 19:30 Effective Coping Strategies for Anxiety 22:32 Anxiety in College: Challenges and Coping Mechanisms 28:23 Abby's Reflections and Future Aspirations 32:14 Exploring the Intersection of Physical and Mental Health 35:57 Embracing Somatic Tools for Mental Health 44:22 Therapeutic Tools and Techniques for Managing Anxiety 52:14 Family Support in Mental Health 57:03 Closing Thoughts: The Importance of Mental Health Awareness