As Summer comes to an end, and the semester gets more intense, stress runs high, even if we may not realize.I tend to just keep working without realizing how tired I am, until it all hits me at once and I feel incapable of achieving anything for varying periods of time. Even though it feels like a mountain to climb to alleviate mental tension, it is possible to do so!
I have also been realizing how college moves so fast and is a transitional experience for everyone’s life. With that, I have been struggling with realizing that adulthood is truly upon me and my childhood is over. Even though it has been a change over several years, as I am mostly done with my college career, reflecting on this has made me feel like it has truly happened so fast.Â
It is important to be aware of your emotions, especially during a time of such uncertainty and unhappiness in our country and around the world. People should not be expected to be able to healthily process the issues that are spewed at us all day every day. For me, that includes avoiding the news, especially things that will only serve to depress me more and that I cannot change. I also have been trying to avoid negative media in general, as it affects mental health whether it is conscious or not.
Therapy is important for everyone to go to, at least for a period of their life. I believe this because it allows you to freely vent your feelings and learn skills to cope with negative aspects of your life. We are not born with the tools to mentally cope with everything that is thrown at us in our lives, and therapy is a great way to learn and practice coping methods. There are many accessible therapy sources that are solely online, in person, and both; as well as search engines to find therapists that take your insurance!
It is also important to take time for yourself everyday, whether it is a nightly self care routine, or doing a hobby you love. Having something that is just for you is a good way to calm down and unwind when things feel overwhelming and out of control. It reminds yourself that you are in control of your own life and have a responsibility to take care of yourself.
Not taking care of yourself can have long term damage that may not be recognizable in the moment, but will become apparent in the future. I have to remind myself of this a lot, and I hope that everyone takes more time for themselves this fall season.