Getting a degree can be a challenging and stressful time of someone’s life. Keeping up with difficult classes may make you prioritize your work over your wellbeing. At the end of the day you will be a happier and healthier person if you learn what works best in caring for yourself when the going gets tough. Here are some tips on maintaining your happiness throughout your college experience.
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1. Use your school resources
There can be fantastic resources at your university specific towards mental health support. Look online to see what your school offers. Many offer support groups, psychotherapy, and massage therapy or will be able to connect you with local support and point your in the right direction. Utilize what there is to offer, especially if it’s free!
2. Join a group
Most colleges have tons of groups that range from any kind of interests. There are film clubs, juggling clubs, adventure clubs, sororities, frats, and so much more! Finding a group of people that share interests are crucial for putting more joy in your life. It’s important to consider that you should not feel pressure to join a club or “fit in” or just join to put on a resume. If you do this, the group may end up being just another stress in your life.
3. Online support
Going from class to class can make it difficult to attend groups or use in person resources. Luckily we live in a time where there are endless resources online for support. It can be helpful to destress in a chatroom of positive people that can offer advice or an internet ear to listen. There are also super cool apps that can help you cool down when life gets too overwhelming!
4. Drink tea/eat chocolate
Use rewards throughout your day to slow down and appreciate something you like. If drinking tea helps you get out of your head, even if it’s for a second, make time for these small moments of pleasure. These I think of the stereotypical “self care” activities. Those facemasks, fuzzy slippers, essential oils before going to sleep. You can never get enough of these pampering activities.
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5. Make a list of things you love and do more of that
When you are absorbed in “getting through” your classes and responsibilities, it’s far too easy to forget to do what you love. Getting a college degree is challenging and requires a lot of time and effort. Make sure you are checking in with yourself that you are doing things that make you happy aside from all the work. If you are curious about new hobbies, try them!
6. Go outside
Fresh air can do wonders for a stressed out soul. When you are spending hours in the library, your body can tense up and your eyes can get strained from staring at a screen. Going outside can be an escape from stress and tension and offer perspective on your worries. You don’t need to spend hours outside; a simple stroll can make a difference!
7. Take naps
Sometimes sleep schedules will get out of sorts during college. A full 8 hours may not be a reality for you and need an alternative. Try getting a sleep mask and get some sleep during the day in between classes. It can make a huge difference for your energy levels and it may save you from snoozing during your lectures.
8. Keep up with grooming and cleaning
It can be tough to juggle studying for big exams with taking care of yourself physically. Even if it’s just wiping the snack crumbs off of your dorm desk, try to clean something everyday. If you don’t have time to shower, use some dry shampoo and wash your face. If you haven’t done laundry in a few weeks, make today the day you do it. You don’t have to be perfectly organized, just remember how good it feels to have a cleaner space.
