There’s no arguing with the fact that being sick at college is the worst. You don’t have someone around to take care of you; the Health Center usually can’t do anything for you and your work just keeps piling up.
While I don’t have a cure for your cold, I do have some advice about how to take care of yourself when you’re on your own.
A (Short) Self-Pity Party Never Hurt Anybody
Being sick is definitely frustrating, especially when you have to miss out on plans with friends or go back on a promise to someone. Wallowing in your sorrow and frustration, while not usually recommended, is actually a good thing to do when you’re sick. This way you force yourself to get some much needed rest, which will help your body heal itself. Be sad–sit under the covers, watch Netflix, and just know that this will pass soon.
Stay Hydrated!
Do you remember all that stuff you learned in Bio class about the importance of water to our bodily processes? In the haze of being sick, you may forget some of it–but you shouldn’t! If you don’t like the taste of regular water, drink tea, or add some lemon to a glass of hot water. Just don’t forget to drink!
If You Feel Up to Working, Work
While rest is an important part of recovering, there comes a point when I get tired of sitting around doing nothing. Tackling a small, manageable amount of homework will help you get back on track when you’re fully recovered, and can also help you feeling better instantly–being productive often boosts my mood, especially when I’m sick.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Asking for help from friends at school can be hard, especially if you’re in your first year and are still getting to know people. But most people, even those you’re not super close to, will be willing to help you in small ways, like by bringing you meals, sending you notes from class, or by picking something up at the drugstore for you. I’ve seen a ton of posts on the Bryn Mawr For Free/For Sale page where students have asked for aspirin, tissues, medical tape, etc. and have been given them for free from fellow Mawrters. So if you need something, just ask–someone in the BMC community will help you.