Can’t shake that summertime sadness now that school’s back in session? Many of us have a hard time getting back into the swing of things after having almost 4 months to ourselves with minimal responsibilities; but what about the freshmen who have never left the nest and now have more responsibilities than ever? College can be a scary yet exciting place especially for new students, and it is the overwhelming rush of emotions and thoughts that get the best of everyone at least some point. In order to keep yourself in check, you need to be aware of which emotions are normal and which are not. Here are some ways to keep yourself balanced as the craziness begins.
From personal experience, one of the best pieces of advice I can give you to keep you sane is to stay organized. While it may seem like a cliché tip that your mother always nagged you to do, it is one of the best ways to stay at ease every day. You will feel so relieved when you are not the one kid struggling to find their homework in front of the whole class! Keeping a planner or calendar is a great way to stay on top of things so you’re never late or forgetful (however we all have those moments so don’t panic when it does happen).
Another helpful tip is to GET ENOUGH SLEEP! Can I stress that enough? Contrary to popular belief, cramming the night before only tires your brain out, and causes you to retain less information than you would if you had gotten a good night’s rest. Not only does sleep help your brain process information that you have taken in all day, but it also helps in keeping focus, a healthy immune system, and overall mental wellness. Power naps (20 minutes at the most) are key! Below is a detailed article on the perfect nap length for young adults.
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/minding-the-body/201006/ultimate-napping-how-guide
Thirdly, make time for yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in classes, school groups and activities, parties and everything else college has to offer, but always remember that you come first! Whether that means taking time to work out, relax, or picking up a hobby that you enjoy, remind yourself to make time. When your own needs are forgotten, it becomes easier for you to succumb to your emotions, making you more susceptible to common mental health problems amongst young adults, including depression, anxiety, eating disorders and chronic stress.
Lastly, use your resources! No matter what you’re struggling with, there is someone to help. Whether you’re struggling with classes and need a tutor, or you’re dealing with depression, anxiety etc. and need to talk to a counselor, you’re not alone. Seeking support from your peers, family, and school resources is a great way to enhance your overall well-being while also making progress in the right direction. Never be too ashamed to ask for help because at some point in our lives, we’ve all been there and we all know what it’s like to have a difficult time balancing everything life throws at us.
Below is another quality article on how to be successful in college. Take a look!
http://www.psychologytoday.com/collections/201308/college-bound/the-key-college-success