By Kate Briones
Flu season is upon us. Unfortunately, the fun fall/winter times also comes with the freezing cold. Now, this cold and viruses are difficult for all of us, but especially if you are in a new place or environment. Like me for example. This is my first time being in Atlanta during the fall/winter. I go slapped in the face with all kinds of colds and flues since I’m not from here and not used to this kind of environment. I met a lot of other students and people who are also having a difficult time adapting to a new place.
A lot of us are getting sick and feel horrible, however, we all still have stuff to do. With classes to attend, homework to get done, work hours, and just general adult responsibilities. With all that it is difficult a lot of people to find time to take care of themselves and feel better. For me, at the beginning, I just ignored my sickness and went on like normal. I would go to school feeling horrible. I went to school to sick and not feeling comfortable or confident in that way that I looked. I felt vulnerable and my self-confidence dropped because I didn’t like how I looked when I went to school.
I met some people at my school who felt the same way I did. After listening to them and hearing their troubles, I realized that we were all doing the same thing. We were putting our school, chores, etc. Before ourselves. That was getting us nowhere besides being more sick and sad.
Finally, I decided I need to take care of myself in for to do my school work to the best of my ability again and feel good about myself. I hope everyone else does too. Don’t forget that in your life you need to come first, especially when you are sick. Take that extra time and take a hot bath, go to bed early, stay in bed on the weekend. You’re not being lazy, you’re taking care of yourself. Throwing up or passing out in class or work is not gonna help you. So take that extra time for yourself.
Wear your favorite outfit, put on your favorite pair of earrings or necklace, do your hair in a fun and easy way all this stuff can help you feel better. Doing little stuff like this while your sick can really help you get better because it will lift your spirits and your confidence. These ideas are very simple, quick, and easy so that way you still have time for rest.
So next time you feel sick or if you are sick now, like me, try doing these things to help yourself. Take care of yourself, love yourself, and make yourself a priority.