As we pass the mid-way point of the semester, the excitement of a fresh academic year begins to fade. We hit the reality of endless assignments, never-ending exams and tightly-packed schedules. For many college students, this drain is real and it is hard. Balancing college classes, a social life and good mental health can be tough this time of year.
I have compiled a list of tips and tricks to get you through the rest of the semester. While you read this list, keep in mind that you are not alone in your thoughts and feelings. Everyone gets mentally drained sometimes, but it’s how you overcome those feelings that matters the most.
A lot of college students struggle with time management, believing that there is not enough time in the day to finish everything they need to finish. This belief is not true. Managing your time will not only relieve your stress but it will help keep you organized. I recommend creating a schedule or a calendar to help manage your tasks. I use the app “Notion” to jot down everything on my to-do list. Also, “Notion” has a calendar where you can organize everything you need to do.
Similarly to time management, getting a solid 7-9 hours of sleep is so important. I know you have been hearing your entire life that sleep is important, but it truly is. Understanding when to stop what you’re doing and go to bed is crucial. Lack of sleep can lead to anxiety symptoms, decreased cognitive ability and overall tiredness.
It is also important to be kind to yourself. College can be extremely stressful and difficult at times, but it’s important to celebrate the small victories and appreciate yourself. I know that it is easier said than done, but being too hard on yourself is never the answer. Celebrating anything from finishing an essay to even just attending class is a great way to realize everything you accomplish.
If you are struggling, the worst thing to do is isolate yourself. I know that is the first thing you probably want to do, but there is so much power in talking out your feelings. If you have a trusted friend on campus, lean on them for advice. If you want to talk to a counselor, Fairfield University offers many different ways to get involved with counseling and psychological services. Building a good support system and network of people can do wonders for your mental health, trust me. If you are looking to make more friends, joining a club or organization is a great way to put yourself out there. Fairfield has over 100 student clubs, you just have to find one that appeals to you.
If you don’t want the commitment of joining a club or talking to a counselor, there are so many small opportunities on campus to attend. For example, during election week, Fairfield U Wellness held an “Election De-Stress Event.” They set up in the LBCC and offered stress toys, stickers, coloring activities and those of that sort. Also, every other Thursday, you can stop outside the library to pet and hang out with Dakota, Fairfield University’s therapy dog. Little things like that can really help someone who is struggling. I always visit Dakota and the other therapy dogs, because it makes me feel good. I recommend checking out Life@Fairfield, there you will see all these events posted.
Another tip I have is to go outside. It may sound too simple, but getting fresh air is sometimes all you need to make you feel better. I go for walks outside very frequently, because they help me clear my mind of all my stress. I know that it is getting colder out, however even getting outside for five minutes can be beneficial. It might sound like it won’t help, but it really does.
Balancing college and mental health is a continuous process that requires self-awareness and willingness to prioritize both academic and personal success. I could sit here all day and provide you with ways to make things better, but at the end of the day, it’s all about what you are willing to do to make a change. Remember, it’s okay not to have everything under control all the time.
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