You Matter: Self-Care Tips for Stressed-Out Students
College is a time for exploring, learning, and self-discovery: a full four years to embrace independence and have some fun. But anyone aware of the actual academic side of college knows that its not all games all the time. Quite frequently, school can lead to anxiety and other mental health problems. While academics are important, you matter most. It’s so vital to take time for yourself, de-stress, and stay sane. Here are some self-care tips to keep your college days fresh and anxiety-free.
1. Work-Out
Working out gets your endorphins flowing, and leaves you feeling more productive, healthy and happy. Force yourself to get out to the gym, or even stay inside and check out some creative (and free!) workouts on YouTube.
2. Write
Journaling is a great way to untangle any anxieties that are knotted in your head. If you put your problems down on paper, they can become more manageable. Plus, it’s a great way to track your mental health over a long period of time.
3. Dance It Out
You can’t do it all. Sometimes, the best thing to do is take a break from whatever mountain you’re climbing. Find a good resting point and breathe! Go out and dance, or stay in and blast your favorite song. Get your blood pumping, get air in your lungs and have some fun.
4. Reach Out
Again: you can’t do it all. And you shouldn’t have to. If life is getting stressful, or you’re feeling alone, or anything is bothering you, make sure to reach out. Just like journaling, sharing your problems is a great way to make them more manageable. Hotlines and counseling centers are available for you as well, so take advantage of them.
5. Get Sleep
Make sure that you’re getting enough sleep. Staying up all night cramming will not be too helpful in the long run. Try and get a full eight hours so you’re fully rested and ready for whatever tomorrow will throw at you.
6. Meditate
Meditation is a great way to clear your mind. If you find that your brain is buzzing with too much activity to sleep, try searching for some guided meditation on sites like YouTube. It’s a great practice that will calm you down and keep you relaxed.
7. Breathe
Breathe. You matter. You are more than your academics. You are more than what others think of you. You are alive, you are still breathing, and I think that’s pretty brilliant.