As a member of the class of 2024 and the former class of 2020, it is easy to often feel forgotten. I still remember sitting in my high school auditorium and hearing the entire student body applaud over our “two-week vacation” that soon turned into two years. It seems as if I’ve blinked my eyes and one and a half years of my college experience have already passed me by. Seeing current high school seniors and college freshmen experience what my class should have had is quite discouraging, and I have noticed that the notorious “sophomore slump” amongst my peers has worsened due to the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are some methods I’ve attempted to help me overcome my sophomore slump, and hopefully they will help others as well.
- Check-In on Your Friends
-
I understand that when most of us are upset we prefer to be alone, but oftentimes that self-isolation is what makes us even sadder. I realized that while I was in a slump I was neglecting my own relationships. When I finally decided to reach out, I realized that I was not alone, as most, if not all, of my friends were feeling the same type of way. Misery loves company, and it is that company that brings us out of a slump together.
- Join Extracurriculars
-
During the height of online school, it was hard to feel involved in a new school environment. When I was in high school I was so involved in extracurricular activities, but Zoom University discouraged me from joining clubs that interested me. I pushed myself last year to join Her Campus, and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made! I met new people and found a community where I fit in. I also started volunteering again and have found a great community with the other volunteers.
- Focus on Your Health
-
I recently started going to the gym after one random day that my friend suggested I go. I actually really enjoyed it and felt energized and alive after, despite having felt exhausted before. I’ve started going to the gym regularly now, and not only do I feel healthier and more confident in myself, I feel much happier and satisfied in my current situation. Studies have shown that there is a direct correlation between exercise and alleviating symptoms of low self-esteem and social withdrawal, which makes it even more appealing.
- Talk to a Professional
-
A lot of the time our home remedies for our mental health are not enough and seeing a professional is more helpful. Now that there is a greater recognition of mental health illnesses and more resources at our disposal, it is up to us to seek help when we need it. BU provides free group therapy sessions and will also refer you to a private therapist if desired. Many offices take a wider range of insurance providers now, making help more accessible to all.
While the sophomore slump is difficult to overcome, it is not impossible. Even if it still feels like you are invisible, take some time to work on yourself. It may seem hard, but the semester is almost over and so is the slump.
Want to keep up with HCBU? Make sure to like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, check out our Pinterest board, and read our latest Tweets!