The most effective way to channel your frustrations and manage your mind is to talk with Beverly Muse, a counselor here at Skyline.

Her story begins with growing up in a family involved with domestic violence, constant fighting and financial hardships. She knew she wasn’t the problem but couldn’t change the situation or her parents. She went directly to her counselor to get help, which inspired her to pursue psychology. In hindsight, she wanted to give back the service she was provided with wh i l e i n high school: a safe place to talk.

Muse says that everyone you pass in the hall or sit next to in class has coping abilities. How soon you lose your cool depends on how intense the drama or pressure is, and Skyline students between ages 18 and 26 have enough pressures.

“We all need a place to talk about it,” Muse said, “so you can find answers inside and develop their own ways to coping. Over-eating, drinking, substance abuse, gambling or shopping can get overgrown like ivy works and start as an anesthetic that becomes a poison, so we need to find the balance.”

Muse goes on to explain that once depression begins, everything looks negative, empty and fatigued. It’s like walking around and the colors have gone out of the world. It takes every effort to get up in the morning and perform normal routines. There can also be significant red flags such as isolation, withdrawal, change in clothing or poor hygiene.

Signs of depression include anxiety, debilitation, self-loathing and negative self-talk. Any thoughts about suicide, hopelessness or despair are also signs of depression. “The truth is, if I can’t fix my car, I’m going to an auto mechanic,” Muse said. “I’m not a cardiologist, and if I have heart problems, I go to a cardiologist.”

Remember, going to see Beverly Muse doesn’t mean you’re crazy. “It’s a sign of strength,” Muse said. “We’re not going to tell other people. It’s really powerful to be able to tell your story and have a witness.”

Psychiatric services are located in building 2 next to the nurse’s office. They are available to currently enrolled students free of charge, Monday through Friday. Beverly Muse, MFT is in room 2221; her phone number is (650) 738-4459. You can also talk with Liz Llamas, MFT by calling (650) 738-4351.