As I’m sure all of you have noticed, college can be an extremely fun, but stressful period of someone’s life. We’re thrown into a new environment with new people, and then expected to be thriving all the time. All I can say is that if it’s not rainbows and butterflies all the time, you’re definitely not alone. With that being said, it’s important to have a toolbox that you can use when you’re feeling like your mental health needs a refresh. Here is what I do when I’m feeling down:
Get outside
As I’m writing this, it’s currently 35 degrees outside and there’s still about 3 inches of snow on the ground from the last snowstorm. If we’re getting analytical, 35 degrees is actually relatively warm for the middle of February, but either way it’s definitely not the ideal conditions to be going outside. While I am aware of this, I still push myself to strap on my winter boots, put on my hat and gloves, get my parka out and take my booty outside. The feeling of fresh air is impeccable, and once you’re out there and walking, it’s really not that bad. Not only are you getting exercise, but you’re also getting outside of your house and seeing the real world… something we all cherish now after having to endure a year of being cooped up in the house. Whether it be venturing to Horsebarn Hill to see the horses, or simply walking in the area surrounding your dorm for a short 20 minutes, I can guarantee you’ll feel better once you get back. Remember, the hardest part is always starting.
Talk it out
Expressing emotions can be difficult, but talking it out to someone who you trust can help in so many ways. First, it shows you that you’re not alone. More times than not, we think that what we’re going through is only happening to us, but the reality is that there are so many people around you who are experiencing the same thing. Having a shoulder to cry on and vent can help release the feeling of burden that may be sitting on your shoulders. While you may trick yourself into thinking that no one wants to hear about your problems, I can assure you that any worthwhile friend will take the time out of their day to help someone they love. If you aren’t in the mood to talk, organize a dance party together or turn on a funny movie. Surrounding yourself with people who are close to your heart will fill it up with love.
journal
A tool that has been in my toolbox for quite some time now is my beloved journal. Whenever my thoughts feel jumbled and I just need to get them out, I start jotting down whatever is coming to mind. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I feel like so many people view journaling as just writing a diary entry, when you can do so much more than that. I will sometimes create thought bubbles, a central circle that I then build off of, just a quick scribble of whatever is on my mind and more. There’s something that feels immensely therapeutic about writing down my thoughts, and realizing that that’s the only thing they are: thoughts. They’re nothing more and nothing less, and most thoughts don’t even require action. Acknowledge your thought, give it a moment to sit, and then dismiss it. Sometimes I literally say, “Thank you for entering my mind, but at this moment you have no purpose, so goodbye.” It may sound cringey, but I swear it works.
seek help
All the tools we have talked about are things that we can do ourselves, but I completely acknowledge that sometimes this is not enough. If you are struggling and not making progress, please consider reaching out to a licensed professional. Student Health and Wellness provides counseling and therapy if needed, along with many other mental health resources. If you wish to not go through UConn, you can look into your health insurance and see which practices are covered. While normal bouts of anxiety and mental health struggles are normal and inevitable, it is also important to recognize when experience and expertise is needed. Plus, there’s nothing to be ashamed of! Especially in modern times, so many people engage with therapy even if they aren’t struggling daily. In fact, it’s better to begin therapy when you feel your mental health starting to decline, rather than hitting rock bottom and then reaching out. Either way, I cannot express enough how much talking to a licensed professional can help, and I truly recommend to anyone who has access.
I hope everyone is having an amazing semester, and if you’re not, make sure to remind yourself that everything is okay and everything will work out. Mental health struggles are completely normal and everyone experiences them, whether they talk about it or not. Stay strong everyone, you’ve got this!