It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind we all know as college. There’s always something going on. Whether it be studying for an exam, working on a project or maintaining a social life, it’s easy to ignore our mental health. So if you’re at the point where your body is begging for some attention, here are ten things that can help you cope.
1. Mindful Breathing/Grounding
(Pic Cred: Berkeley)
Mindful breathing and grounding is one of the easiest ways to calm yourself. Start with sitting down where your feet are flat on the ground. Notice how the ground pushes up on your feet and how the chair supports your body. Pay attention to your breath. Breath in through your nose completely filling your lungs. Exhale through your mouth. Picture your breath leaving your body. This can be very helpful when you’re stressed in the moment.
2. Take a Hot Shower or Bath
(Pic Cred: Ola Peeps)
Taking a hot bath or shower is a great way to feel refreshed. While you’re in the shower just picture the water washing away all your troubles. Use a lavender or vanilla scented body wash to soothe and calm yourself. This is also a great place to cry. Give yourself 10-15 minutes to just let it all out in the shower. No one will see your tears and you can just wash them away.
3. Avoid Caffeine
(Pic Cred: Groupon)
Caffeine is a stimulant that can exacerbate anxiety. If you’re feeling really stressed to the point where your heart is racing or you’re having trouble sleeping, lay off the caffeine. Instead of coffee or Redbull try decaf tea, hot chocolate or lemon water. You’ll be surprised at how much more calm you feel after a few days.
4. Surround Yourself with Good People
(Pic Cred: Writing with Hope)
One of the most toxic things you can do for yourself is surround yourself with people who stress you out. If you have a friend who is constantly plaguing you with drama or a classmate who is always stressing about how much they are studying compared to you, consider distancing yourself. If they’re doing more harm than good, are they really worth it? You should be around people that encourage you and make you feel happy.
5. Exercise
(Pic Cred: Popular Science)
I know getting to the gym can feel like a drag when there’s too much on your mind, but trust me it can really clear your head. When you exercise, your brain releases chemicals called endorphins. These interact with receptors in the brain that reduce the perception of pain and enlighten your mood. Not only is exercising good for your body but it’s also great for your mind.
6. Listen to Relaxing Music
(Pic Cred: Evil Yellow Chicken)
I’m a strong proponent for listening to calming music when stressed out. My body reacts strongly to rhythms and lyrics. It allows my mind to focus on something else besides my own thoughts. I recommend classical music with no lyrics while doing homework or listening to Ed Sheeran when you’re just hanging out.
7. Get Outside
(Pic Cred:Encircle World Photos)
Getting outside to get some Vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin) is great for your body. Vitamin D interacts with receptors in your brain that are responsible for how you act and cell division. When you don’t get enough Vitamin D, depression symptoms are likely to occur. Not only is the sun helpful but getting some outside air can be really refreshing.
8. Get Organized
(Pic Cred: Brigham Professional Organizer)
Make a list. Write in a planner. Clean your room. Do your laundry. When things around you are put together you are more likely to be put together.
9. Take a Nap
(Pic Cred: Katie Labbay)
College really takes a toll on the amount of sleep you get. Like I said before, there’s always so much going on. A quick 20 minute afternoon nap is very beneficial. If you have the time to take a 90 minute nap, that’s also great. You want to avoid waking up in the middle of REM or deep sleep to prevent feeling groggy. A full 90 minutes will allow for a full sleep cycle to take place.
10. Ask for Help
(Pic Cred: She Knows)
A lot of people don’t want to admit they’re stressed out, but trust me, asking for help can sometimes be the best way to deal with your stress. Maybe you don’t know where to start studying for an exam? Book a tutor! They can help give you advice about how to get started and what to focus on. Vent to a friend. Just getting your worries out can be extremely relieving. Talk to a counselor. They’re not there to judge you at all. Letting it out to someone who has no bias in your situation can be extremely helpful.
College isn’t easy but with these tips I hope to make it a little more bearable!