FAQ

Is it really common for people to talk to a PC?

Yep! Last year, the PCs logged over 300 one-on-one hours talking to people outside of the hotline, office hours, and small groups.

If I'm just stressed about school or friends, can I still contact a PC?

Of course! PCs are trained to help with a variety of mental health issues, from something as serious as depression to something as common as stress about homework.

I want to talk to a PC, but I don't want to bother them if they're busy.

The PCs enjoy helping and talking to people who need someone there for them----that's why they're PCs. If a PC is busy on account of a job or schoolwork, they will let you know they aren't available at that time but can talk later. If you ever need someone immediately, call the campus safety and ask for the counselor on call. Someone on the other end of the phone will always be available to talk and even meet in person if needed.

I'm worried that my friend needs help, but I know he/she/they will not ask for it on their own.

That's always a difficult situation and the best things to do varies case by case. In general, if you are concerned about their safety or the safety of others, contact the counseling center, or more urgently, campus safety. In less urgent cases, the best thing to do is just be their friend and remind them that you are always there for them should they need you. Remind them of the resources on campus (Counseling Center, SRPA, DAs, PCs, Unity House, etc.). Contacting a PC to ask for more specific advice is also an option. Importantly, don't forget to take care of yourself while you're helping others.

I want to talk to a PC that has first-hand experience with depression/anxiety/etc.

All the PCs are trained to help others— whether they have first-hand experience in the problem at hand or not. However, we understand how helpful empathy can be. If you're looking to get in touch with someone with particular experience, send an email to peercounselors@kenyon.edu saying "Hey! I'd really like to talk to someone with experience in dealing with _______" and if possible, we will connect you with the corresponding PC!

I'm not sure who to talk to...

All the PCs are excellent resources but we all have our unique personalities. We know each other pretty well, so reach out to any of us. If it's not a great fit, we can definitely point you to the right PC for you. You definitely won't hurt our feelings. It's way more important that you find someone you're comfortable with.

I'm not a first-year, can I still contact a PC?

Of course! PCs exist to support the entire student body.

What happens after I contact a PC?

It depends on what you want to happen! We're happy to just chill and do homework with you, provide a listening ear, and talk through what you're struggling with, make tea, go on walks to the BFEC, show you good music, and generally be a supportive person in your life. After we talk or meet up, that could be it or we could continue to talk. PCs are also available and willing to walk you to the counseling center and help you make an appointment with a counselor if you'd like to do that as well.

I have thoughts of suicide and I'm afraid if I tell a PC they'll freak out.

We're really sorry to hear that. In any case, know that a lot of PCs have been through the same stuff, and not one of us will panic if you tell us.

I'm worried people will judge me for going to the Counseling Center.

Over half the student body goes to the counseling center. Be it a one-off, or regular appointments, the counseling center is full of amazing professionals whose services are included in your tuition. Your parents will not find out if you start using a counselor and no one else has to know if you don't want them to.

I'm a freshman, can I become a Peer Counselor?

We appreciate your enthusiasm! Unfortunately, only sophomore-seniors can be PCs. However, while current freshmen cannot be Peer Counselors, applications for the following school year will take place in the spring, and we encourage freshmen to apply at that time. Check back on our "Apply" page for updates and more information and keep an eye on your allstus!