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Counseling Services for Students in Pittsburgh

Mental health is as important as physical health. If you have problems which you find overwhelming or if you're worried someone close to you is suffering from depression or contemplating suicide, professional help is available:


On-Campus Counseling

  • PITT - 334 William Pitt Union (412-648-7930)
  • CMU - E Tower, Ste. 103 (412-268-2922)
  • DUQUESNE - 3rd Fl., Administration (412-396-6204)
  • CARLOW - 411 Francis Ward Hall Bldg. (412-578-6306)
  • CHATHAM - Woodland Hall (412-365-1282)
  • POINT PARK - (412-392-3800)


Abortion/Pregnancy Counseling

See Pregnancy Services: Abortion & Anti-Abortion Counseling Services


Alcohol and Drug Abuse

College has traditionally been the place where most people discover drinking. Even though alcohol is legal for those over the age of 21, it's still a drug. The Office for Substance Abuse Prevention estimates that almost 7% of college freshmen drop out because of problems with alcohol. Remember: Know your limit. Eat food while you drink. Skip a drink occasionally. Don't be duped. A glass of wine, a mixed drink and a glass of beer contain the same amount of alcohol. Appoint a designated driver. Don't drink on an empty stomach. Don't be intimidated by peer pressure. Beware of drinks like Purple Hooters and Zombies - the alcohol taste is masked by the fruity flavor.

Who is an alcoholic? Simply, an alcoholic is a person who has lost the power of choice in drink. Some warning signs:

  • Have you ever decided to stop drinking but lasted for only a couple of days?
  • Do you wish people would mind their own business about your drinking?
  • Have you ever switched from one kind of drink to another in the hope that •this would keep you from getting drunk?
  • Has drinking caused trouble at home?
  • Do you tell yourself you can stop drinking any time you want to, even though •you keep getting drunk when you don't mean to?
  • Have you missed work or school because of drinking?
  • Do you have "blackouts"? A blackout is when you have been drinking and •there are periods of time which you cannot remember.
  • Have you ever felt that your life would be better if you did not drink?

If you checked at least four, you're probably in trouble with alcohol. Don't hit bottom before you go for help! Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of people who help each other stay sober. It is free, there are meetings on or near every campus, and the only requirement is a desire to stay sober (412-471-7472).

Don't fool yourself - drugs are not cool! Drugs are illegal, destructive and deadly. There are no safe limits. Even prescription and over-the-counter drugs can be dangerous if abused or misused. If you or someone you know needs help, do not hesitate to contact: Al-Anon & Alateen (1-888-425-2666) support for the families & friends of alcoholics, Alcoholics Anonymous (412-471-7472), Gateway (412-963-7077), Narcotics Anonymous (412-391-5247), or Message Carriers (412-361-0142) an addiction intervention service.


Eating Disorders

Are you compulsive about diet and exercise? Have you developed eating habits like severe dieting or secret binging? Have you ever fasted, induced vomiting, or used laxatives, diuretics or diet pills excessively? If you answered yes, you might have an eating disorder. Eating disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa and Compulsive Overeating) are prolific on campuses. If you think you or someone you know needs help, contact The Center for Mind & Body Wellness (412-422-9313) or Lauren Lazar Stern, MA, ATR-BC, LPC at 311 S. Craig St., Oakland (412-361-8040), a specialist in eating disorders. She offers individual and group therapy for those struggling with their body image.


Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pattern of forceful, controlling behavior by an abuser within an intimate relationship. It occurs in all races, religions, income levels, professions and neighborhoods. You're not responsible for another person's violence. If you are being physically, sexually or emotionally abused and controlled by a person with whom you currently or formerly have had an intimate relationship, call the Women's Center & Shelter of Greater Pgh's 24 hour hotline at 412-687-8005. Counseling, legal advocacy, and a safe, temporary shelter are available.


Rape and Sexual Assault

Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) provides comprehensive cost-free services to child and adult victims of sexual abuse. If you are a sexual assault survivor, call our 24 hour hotline (412-765-2731) for confidential listening and access to PAAR services. If you want information or to set up a group educational program, call PAAR at 412-431-5665. University of Pittsburgh's Office of Sexual Assault Services (412-648-7856), located in the William Pitt Union, also provides counseling. Pitt students who have been sexually assaulted or who have experienced some form of sex descrimination are eligible for services.

 

Still can't find it? It may be under a different listing — check out the Health Services in Pittsburgh directory or Abortion & Anti-Abortion Counseling Services.

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