I never realized how many people had anxiety until college. I thought I was kind of alone, trapped in a never-ending cycle of fear caused by factors that I was not yet aware of. This personal battle is something that affects so many of my friends and our lives. Here are some tips and tricks I use to help keep my anxiety down, even when finals week makes my life feel out of control.
Meditation is something that seems like it might be only valuable for crystal-wielding hippies. However, these hippies might be onto something. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or out of control, I watch this exact youtube video (https://youtu.be/EpVFSti0Ydg). The soothing female voice reminds me that you can’t control everything, nor should you. Watching this in times of stress has helped me and so many of my friends, all of whom were reluctant to try it.
Another amazing opportunity to meditate is hosted by SDSU’s Student Health Services and is a 3-part meditation workshop. This three-week commitment might seem daunting at first (hence the anxiety) but it’s an investment in your mental and physical health that could be costly once you graduate and decide you want it. You can learn more information on this opportunity at https://go.sdsu.edu/student_affairs/cps/workshops.aspx. You can also call Student Health Services at 619-594-5520 to sign up.
Basically any health professional will tell you to work out. And you know what? They are correct. I haven’t been to medical school, but I can tell you for free that I feel ten times better when I work out. I’m sure there is a ton of scientific evidence behind this but honestly, I don’t even care to hear it because I feel like I chugged a gallon of coffee and ate 3 CBD gummies after every visit to the Aztec Recreation Centre. I personally enjoy working out before class when my schedule allows; it clears my mind and helps me get out any extra energy that drives me into ADHD oblivion. This is not always an easy thing depending on your schedule but if you give it a chance, you might see similar results.
Having a diary might seem like a pretty elementary habit but honestly, it’s therapeutic. You can spill your deepest darkest secrets into it and no one will ever find out. This is a great place to healthily vent about how you feel and what is going on in your life, especially if you don’t have the confidence to tell your friends and family. Think of it as your own personal “Burn Book,” Regina-George-style, minus the bullying.
My last piece of advice is pretty cheesy: reach out to a friend. Once you open up, you will be shocked to find out how many of your friends struggle with the same issues as you. It can feel good to relate to someone, or at least to get your feelings out there in general. Whether it be a roommate, friend or health professional at Calpulli, just know that you are not alone and you will get through it.