Winter is a difficult time for everyone; not only do the cold, dreary weather and short days make for greater susceptibility to sadness, but the ever-growing stress of classes and exams can only add to the overall negative feelings. If you’re like me, there’s a good chance you’ve already experienced, or are still experiencing, a mid-winter slump. It happens to the best of us, but there are always ways to overcome the slump before spring arrives!
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Surround yourself with the people you love
It’s easy to get caught up in your work and stress, especially towards the start of midterm season. Add extracurricular activities, social obligations and personal responsibilities on top of that, and the stress often becomes overwhelming. When you start to feel too overwhelmed, reach out to your friends. Spend time with them, even if you just sit and chat for an hour or study together. Being around those you love will remind you that you have more than just work and stress!
Plan and prioritize
Winter days are short, so it’s common to feel like you’ve spent all day in class, only to go home to do more work. But this doesn’t have to be true! As always, being organized is key; manage your time to ensure that you can get all your work done and have time to eat, sleep and do things you want to do.
Practice mindfulness
Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed by the constant demands of school and life; make sure you alway take the time to check in with yourself. Our mental health and stability is just as important as our physical health. Whether you spend a few minutes each day journaling or practicing meditation/mindfulness, make sure you have your own time away from everyone and everything else.
Remember that spring is nr
In the end, it’s important to remind yourself that nothing is permanent. Just like winter, your slump will pass with time. Look forward to the future, and remind yourself that everything will work out in the end- the stress will pass, you’ll finish your classes and you’ll make it out alive. Keep this in mind throughout the remainder of winter, and you’ll be back to your real, relaxed self come springtime!