Every college kid is scared of the Freshman 15, but what about the pressures weighing on your mind? With an abundance of adventures – all-nighter study sessions, intramural sport games, fro-yo trips – mental health is often put on the back burner. Yet having a healthy mind is crucial to surviving those four years of stress, uncertainty and craziness. Developing healthy mental habits will keep your smarts sharp and emotions in check so you can focus on conquering your never-ending schedule.
Here’s how to keep your mind in shape as an undergrad:
The burning desire to set your planner on fire may ignite when you’re feeling overwhelmed. While breaks are definitely necessary, don’t abandon ship at the first sign of trouble. Evading responsibilities will only yield more anxiety and send your mind in panic mode. Take charge of your schedule by Bullet Journaling or using iPhone organization apps. Facing the stress head-on ensures you don’t flatline when you’re hit with those never-ending deadlines.
Coloring isn’t just for Kindergarden classes anymore. Adult coloring books are trending with studies backing up the mental health benefits. USA Today reports that coloring helps you de-stress and relax. When University of Maryland students tested out the fad, they found it easier to connect with themselves and their community. Next time you’re overwhelmed, skip the Ben & Jerry’s and opt to channel your crafty alter ego instead.
When the papers pile up, it can be easy to ignore the piles of dirty laundry forming mountains in your dorm. But letting your room go will end up hurting your well-being. According to The New York Times, a clean room is vital for physical and mental health. A clean room may even help lessen depressive symptoms. After class, take a few minutes to organize your space – and uncluttered mind will do wonders for your productivity.
Don’t ghost your friends when your To-Do list turns into an essay. Make sure you carve out time in your schedule to see your besties or socialize with peers. Canceling plans to get more done is a short-term solution; lack of social connection will hurt you in the long-term. National Health Service notes that relationships are critical for a healthy mind. If you’re struggling to fit your squad in your schedule, suggest they join you for a gym date or coloring sesh so you can enjoy their company while being productive.
That’s right: when you feel crazy, talk to yourself. Having a one-on-one conversation doesn’t mean you have voices or imaginary friends in your head. According to the Wall Street Journal, motivational self-talk is common and healthy, especially if you replace “I” with “you.” Before an arduous exam or sweat-inducing speech, tell your mind exactly what it needs to hear. Just make sure it’s positive – negative affirmations (i.e. “I’m too nervous” or “I’m going to fail”) are more harmful than silence.
Luckily for millennials, mental health is finally getting the attention it deserves on college campuses. Pay attention to that conversation and take advantage of the resources your university offers. Don’t be afraid to take an anxiety workshop or talk through a personal issue with a school psychologist. Visit your college’s counseling center or check out a list of national resources from the American College Health Association. College sure ain’t easy, but it’s much more manageable with a healthy mind.
