Unfortunately, we’ve all been there. “There” meaning the unhappy place in your life where you feel a combination of emotional and physical exhaustion. As a senior in college, I’ve been to this place too many times. Yes, the work and commitments are a lot to deal with, but also the general things needed to survive and feel happy can also be too much to handle sometimes. A break from a hectic schedule seems nowhere in sight, and a nice meal/time to enjoy a not so rushed shower seem like luxuries instead of necessities. Sometimes college students’ ability to deny themselves basic things like sleep is worn like a badge of honor. Other times it seems bold and honorable to push yourself past your limits. We muscle through our daily lives bravely and proudly, but at what cost? How much work is overwork? How much mental/physical abuse can our bodies take?
Personally, I have never been great at putting myself before other priorities. 3 a.m. is one of my best friends. I consistently ask myself which I want more: a nap, some food or a nice shower. I minimize the harmfulness of my own self-destructive behaviors in an effort to cram as many things into my day as possible. Even as I write this, I am yearning for a few minutes away from responsibilities. Some days I feel like I have a sickness that medicine can’t alleviate. However, I recognize that I deserve better. My health, your health, our collective health as a community, matter. I believe that perhaps we need to take a step back. Reevaluate our priorities and realize that hard work can quickly become overwork. I believe that workaholism is a well-dressed mental health issue. Because of this, I’ve compiled a list of hopefully helpful thoughts for when you feel burdened by yourself.
- Things may seem really stressful in this moment, but it is okay to take a break. 48 hours away from something can heal many things.
- Pay attention to your stressors. Your feelings are valid and important.
- Don’t compare yourself to others. Just don’t do it. We are all amazing and capable in unique ways.
- Slow progress is still progress.
- You are capable of learning anything! Nothing is incomprehensible.
- As much as you want to convince yourself that sleep isn’t important, it is.
- Being healthy means something different to everyone. Sometimes a shower can feel healthy. Sometimes a walk is what you need. Cleanse your soul in whatever way you feel relevant.
- You don’t have to feel guilty for relaxing.
- You have survived all of your other bad days.