Entering college is an exciting time, but this new lifestyle can lead to stress, loss of focus and other more serious conditions if left unchecked. To help the incoming Class of 2012, Mental Health America’s Public Education department put together a fact-sheet outlining the benefits of getting active—and staying active in their college communities.

The fact sheet was promoted to college newspapers and resident advisors across the country.

Mental Health America offers these suggestions to freshmen:

Connect to your roommate, dorm mates and resident advisor. Make an effort to get to know the people you’re living with, both in your room and in your Hall. Also, Resident Advisors are trained to know what’s happening on campus.

Stay connected to family and friends at home. Leaving your friends and family is a big change, but staying in touch can help you feel close and supported. Instant messaging, texting, email and social networking sites are great ways to stay connected while you’re away.

Connect to the larger campus community. You may want to think about participating in sorority or fraternity recruitment, but if that isn’t your thing, there are other student clubs on campus that focus on everything from social justice issues to rock-climbing. Don’t see a club you like? Start one.

Connect to your professors and academic advisors. Your professors and academic advisors are there to help you get through tough classes, tough decisions and tough times. They can help you figure out what you want out of your academic experience. If you feel like you might have a rough time in class, make an appointment with your professor during office hours.

Connect to help. Your health and well-being can affect your freshman year experience—how much you enjoy being there, how well you do in class and how you feel about yourself. Make your health and well-being a priority from the start.