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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at VCU chapter.

With deadlines, tests and final exams approaching quickly, sometimes you tend to not notice that you are so invested in the tasks that need to be done, that you don’t realize that your mental health isn’t as strong as it should be. And having a strong mental health is valuable because it helps boost your confidence and gives you the energy to complete what you need to finish. Here are some signs to help you notice that you need a mental break!

1. You’re tired and can’t sleep.

Some people may have those nights where you are so exhausted, yet you can’t get yourself to sleep. Even after counting sheep or forcefully shutting your eyes, you still can’t get a good night’s rest. With endless thoughts running through your mind, even when you are trying to sleep, this is a clear sign of anxiety. If this happens to you, you need a mental break.

2. You have a short fuse.

Having too many thoughts in your head can make you frustrated and irritated, even for the tiniest reasons. If you find yourself in continuous stress and feel negative energy every time you are doing something, then your mind needs a break. It’s imperative to keep your temper because you may make rash decisions that not only affect you, but other people in your life.

3. You are constantly sick.

Being stressed and overwhelmed for a very long time can actually weaken your immune system. If you find yourself with sinus infections, slight coughs and even headaches, it may be because you are stressing out your body. This is definitely your body telling you to take care of yourself by drinking plenty fluids, eating right and getting a good night sleep.

4. You feel glum.

If you notice yourself feeling down – even when you do the things that used to make you happy – you need a mental break. When you dread your everyday schedule, then that means you should change it around. Just accept that you could use a mental break to set yourself back on track. It will make you a stronger person.

5. You’re too stressed about the past to focus on the present.

Sometimes when you are stressed, your past mistakes or failures may start to resurface and bring you down. This is going to discourage you as you go throughout your day, making you become distant from the present. Being in the present is vital in order for you to work towards your future goals. Feeling this way means that a mental break can help you settle your thoughts and relax your brain from a muddled mess.

As the end of the semester approaches, remember to take care of your mental health because it will only help you become stronger.

Photo Credits: 1, 2, 3

Gargi is currently part time editorial team member at Her Campus as a sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University. Her hobbies include drawing, blogging and painting. You would most likely catch Gargi eating Panera and binge watching to New Girl or Once Upon A Time. Although she is a biology major, she find writing inspiring and a way to express feelings that she can't say in person. She sees herself working in the Public Health field in the future.
Keziah is a writer for Her Campus. She is majoring in Fashion Design with a minor in Fashion Merchandising. HCXO!