The Oracle staff interviewed California-licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Shirley Long to find out how students can stay mentally healthy.

The Oracle: How can students maintain a mentally healthy lifestyle?

Shirley Long: A balanced life to try to take care of all aspects of your life. You want to have time to study, socialize with friends and family, exercise, have hobbies and sleep. Talk to people about your stress, and don’t isolate yourself. You need to have ways to manage your stress and relax yourself.

TO: What are some factors that contribute to unhealthy living habits?

SL: Lack of sleep, irregular sleeping habits, drinking coffee to wake up in the mornings, too many concerns about food, weight, and body image, social isolation, never going out with friends, substance abuse issues and not engaging in activities to relax oneself.

TO: What is the role of a psychiatrist when dealing with adolescents that require help dealing with mental issues?

SL: Psychiatrists usually evaluate and monitor the need for medication for more serious psychological problems. Psychologists like myself, evaluate and treat teens’ psychological problems with talking therapy. If I think patients can benefit from medication, I will call pediatricians to prescribe medicine. I would play the role of analyzing, and helping patients see the root of the problem and figure out how they really feel and how to deal with issues.

TO: What would you suggest to a teen in need of help?

SL: Psychological problems, just like physical illness, are unavoidable issues we all face in life. It is important to treat them the same way as to seeking for help. If you have a fever for a week and it won’t go away with taking Advil, you will go to see a doctor for sure. Psychological problems should be treated the same way. If [you are] suffering from depression or anxiety for two weeks, and you still feel depressed or anxious, you should talk to a professional regarding the condition. Early intervention is the key to full remission and a shorter duration of treatment. For example, if you ignore depression, it may get worse, and you may feel suicidal and be unable to concentrate or remember your studies, or you might be unable to get up in the morning to go to school.