By Mackenzie Boyce
Being a college student can be mentally draining. The overwhelming cycle of class and work seems to be never-ending, and I often feel like I have no energy to do what makes me happy. My freshman year took a toll on my mental health, and I developed unhealthy habits and coping mechanisms, which impacted both my grades and personal relationships. Going into this fall semester, I set goals to practice better self-care, and develop an overall healthier lifestyle. Here are the methods that work for me while trying to stay mentally healthy as an overworked college student.
Wake Up and Get Ready
As cliche as it sounds, I find the “look good feel good” mindset to hold true. I spent my entire freshman year setting my alarm for five minutes before class and rushing out the door. Sure enough, I felt like I had just rolled out of bed, but somehow I could not understand why I had no energy or motivation. I realized it’s so important to establish a morning routine because a good day builds off of the way it starts. Make your bed, put on a cute outfit, eat some breakfast and get ready to feel like a girl boss who can take on whatever the day has in store!
Keep a Journal
You might be thinking, “Wow. Of course the girl who’s writing an article about mental health is recommending journaling,” but in all honesty, I didn’t find a passion for writing until my therapist recommended carrying around a small notebook. I found it therapeutic to write down my thoughts, whether it be just one sentence or six pages, I was able to express feelings I was too scared to open up about. It’s a way to vent and get out frustrations in a judgement-free way. Something I find helpful is writing down my negative thoughts, and coming up with ways to reframe that mindset to be more positive. Counter those negative thoughts instead of letting them consume you!
Make “Me” Time
Trust me, as someone who attends classes all day in addition to a part-time job, I understand that finding time for passions can seem nearly impossible. I’ve found, however, that these moments dedicated to myself make the difference between happiness and burnout. It’s necessary to put yourself first, and whether it be ten minutes or an hour, you need to find a moment to relax, forget responsibilities and focus on yourself. Reward yourself with one activity you love every day. Leave that dorm room because being confined to one space can make your mind wander to dark places, and do at least one act of self-care. I love reading, and use this as a time to relax and take a break from schoolwork, but you can go for a walk, cook, write or paint your nails. Find that passion and don’t lose your sense of self!
Change starts with a single step. Making that decision to take my struggles and grow from them was life-changing. It’s necessary to not let stress or hardship overwhelm you, and instead do all you can to move past it. You are so much stronger than you think!