Let’s face it; 2020 was a hot mess. We faced (and are still facing) a pandemic, drastic changes in our school and social lives, and most importantly, mental health struggles. Despite that, we made it to the new year, and we’re still standing.
Personally, I found myself with a lot of free time at the beginning of 2020. During it, I did one of the most vital things anyone could do: I worked on myself. I have compiled my thoughts and put together a list of my little “discoveries” and “life hacks” that help me feel like my best self. Without further ado, here are 10 small changes I incorporated into my daily routine that drastically improved my mental health.
*Disclaimer: Everyone is different! These changes make me feel like I have a grip on my personal mental health problems, and I think they’re definitely worth trying, but if they don’t make you feel unstoppable, that is okay! Remember, reach out to a friend, a loved one, or the resources I listed below if you need more help. It does get better!
TAMU CAPS helpline: 979.845.2700
Suicide hotline: 800.273.8255
- Making my bed
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It’s such an easy task that I used to overlook, but making my bed each morning helps me feel like I have control over my day. It puts me in an organized mindset and really helps me get over waking up on the wrong side of the bed.
- Taking vitamins
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Here’s the truth; I don’t think any of us put enough vitamins into our body, especially over 2020. I started taking vitamin D, iron, and a multivitamin every morning, and WOW. This easy little habit helps me avoid the sluggish and heavy feeling throughout the day, something we all want to (and can) avoid.
- Being intentional
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Whether it’s packing my backpack and setting out my clothes the night before (another recommendation!) or setting my alarm, my brain loves to trick me and tell me I forgot something. To combat this, I put all my thought on each task individually and tell myself “I am setting my alarm” or “I am packing the right materials for class.”
- Setting reminders/making a to-do list
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We’re humans, and that means we tend to forget things every once in a while. To prevent unnecessary anxiety about completing tasks or turning in assignments on time, I set reminders and add items to my to-do list throughout my day.
- Buying a reusable water bottle
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When people say, “college is you and your water bottle against the world,” they’re not lying. I take my water bottle with me EVERYWHERE. It’s literally like my child. Hydration is so important for our mental and physical health and having one around by my side 24/7 essentially forces me to drink water. Helping save the earth while you hydrate is just a plus.
- Avoiding being on my phone when I’m outside
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It’s inevitable that we’re on our phones throughout a lot of the day. To combat the headache of checking emails and social media, I try to avoid being on my phone when I’m outside. We’re all only going to be in our college towns for so long; might as well enjoy the views while we’re at it!
- Listening to upbeat music
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I love music, but with that comes the guilty trait of listening to sad music when I feel down (this is perfectly okay as long as it’s not all the time!). To help keep my mood uplifted, especially when I’m heading to class or studying, I have been listening to fun and energetic tunes. Here are my January favorites: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4xWLeZPRJWjyzv4mWNa1MT?si=ynaoPgyqQVS5luz31jYhFA
- Eating fruit/veggie applesauce packets
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Similar to not getting the right amount of vitamins, I have also been responsible for not getting enough nutrients in the form of fruits and vegetables. Preparing these can be a task in itself, so I keep my pantry stocked with travel packs of veggie apple sauce packets. They taste good, and they’re good for you!
- Meal planning
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At the beginning of the week or right before I go grocery shopping, I like to make a physical list of meals I plan to eat throughout the week. As for on a daily basis, I like to keep track of new recipes I find or my friends try, and I also like to think about what I’m going to eat for each meal at the beginning of the day.
- Being present
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With my busy schedule of college classes and an internship, I often find myself in shock at the end of the day when I can hardly remember anything about my day. I choose to take small breaks throughout my day where I actively take in my environment and point out things that fulfill all five of my senses. This technique of grounding helps ease my chaotic-filled brain and allows me to enjoy the now.
I know that we’re not all the same, and I know that at times, it can be tough to get simple, everyday things done. I hope that incorporating just a few of these habits into your daily routine can help lessen those not-so-fun feelings you have. Don’t forget, your feelings are valid and it will get better!