
College is a time of change and adjustment that is known as the best time of one’s life but also can be the most stressful. Balancing time between classes, work, social activities, and self-care is challenging. They oftentimes find themselves sacrificing sleep to finish assignments or so they can spend time with friends to help relieve stress.
It doesn’t help that since they are so busy they don’t always get the best nutrition or exercise. Plus, drinking and partying are normal parts of college but they can also have negative effects on mental health. In this blog, we are going to go over ways for college students to prioritize and practice mental wellness.
Scheduling Self-Care
College is a fast-paced environment that can be overwhelming. You have to schedule like you schedule your classes. This can mean something as simple as carving out 20 minutes for yourself. Or you can do something more complex like setting a date with friends for yoga or other activities.
You can even find an accountability partner that can help you with this. This can be a friend, your roommate, or a personal trainer at your university’s gym. Having an accountability partner can help make sure you stay on track and not skip out on your self-care activities. Plus, it can be fun to have someone to encourage you and participate in activities with.
Finding New Methods of Self-Care
One way to help with your mental wellness is to find new interests that you can be passionate about. This could be a new hobby such as painting, writing, or photography. You can check what the university is offering and join clubs or groups in the community that align with your interests. Having a new interest can relieve stress but be a form of self-care that betters your mental health.
For instance, if you like theater then join a group theater. Or if you enjoy going for runs then join a running club. The key is to find something that you enjoy that can help give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment. It’s something that can bring you joy when you are feeling overwhelmed or down about college life.
Seeking a Support System
There are moments in college when you need support. For example, when you’re stressed out about exams/finals or you feel overwhelmed by the workload. That’s when it’s important to have someone you can lean on for support. Leaning on your friends or support system, which can be your friends, family, or a therapist can help.
If you’re attending a university not close to home, finding and creating a support system can be crucial for your mental well-being. Groups that are in your interests could be a great place to seek support from people who share the same interests. Plus, you know you already have something in common.
Student Health Has Counselors!
Student health at universities has counselors that are there to provide support and guidance. It can feel like going to the principal’s office because you can sometimes see people that you know. In this case, online is a good option!
Find a Therapist
Finding a therapist that can best match your needs and provide the help that you need is very powerful. You can find psychologists or therapists online or through your university’s student health center. Or, you can find one through your or your parent’s insurance. There are even free and low-cost options available! Having a therapist to support you during the tough times during college can make a world of difference.
Most therapists are now providing online therapy as an option as well, which can be great for those attending college or transitioning to college. So if you had a therapist back home, see if they provide online therapy. However, if you are attending university out of state, see if you can search for a therapist close by or if your therapist is licensed in that state.
Take Care of Your Basic Needs
This may seem like common sense, but it’s worth mentioning. Making sure that you are taking care of your basic needs can really help with your mental wellness. Getting enough sleep is an important one because if you’re overly tired, you’re going to struggle with getting your work done. Eating nutritious foods and drinking plenty of water is also important to make sure you have the energy to keep going throughout the day and that your body isn’t struggling to get through the day.
Another basic need is exercise, which can help reduce stress and clear your mind. Whether it’s going for a run, swimming, or taking an online fitness class, getting some physical movement can help you stay active and give you a break from studying. It releases endorphins in your body which can be a great way to lift your mood. Plus, it will help you feel as if you accomplished something. Even if it’s something as small as a walk around the block!
Taking care of your mental wellness through self-care and being aware of the resources available to you is key. College can be a stressful and overwhelming time, but there are ways to help make it a little easier. Having ways to cope and knowing when to seek support can help make college a more manageable and enjoyable experience. Reach out for help when you need it, take time to care for yourself, and enjoy the journey.
Begin Individual Therapy in Alpharetta or Milton, GA
Learning how to better your mental wellness can be a long journey, but it is possible. You can find ways to cope, manage stress, and learn how to best support yourself. Our team of therapists at Wellview Counseling will be your support system and provide you with the guidance that you need to take care of your mental health. We can help you access resources and find ways to better manage your stress. If you’re interested in starting therapy:
- Contact Wellview Counseling
- Meet with Our Therapists
- Begin individual therapy in Alpharetta or Milton, GA today!
Other Therapy Services Offered at Wellview Counseling
College can be overwhelming and cause a lot of stress and anxiety. Our therapists at Wellview Counseling understand that this can bring up difficult emotions and can be challenging to manage. That’s why we offer therapy services that can help you cope with the stress of college life. We offer individual counseling, child counseling, teen counseling, family counseling, postpartum depression and anxiety counseling, trauma and PTSD treatment, and therapy for those with a chronic illness. Regardless of the challenge you face, our therapists are here to help. Our office is in Roswell, GA, but we also offer online therapy to anyone in Georgia. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment please feel welcome to reach out to us!
About the Author
Meet Ashley Bobo, MSW, LCSW, a therapist who truly cares about your mental health and well-being. With over 20 years of experience helping individuals and families, Ashley has a wealth of knowledge and expertise when it comes to managing stress and anxiety, overcoming depression, and improving relationships. Ashley believes that everyone’s journey is unique, and she will work with you to find the best approach for your specific needs. Whether you’re struggling with college overwhelm or just need some support and guidance, Ashley can provide you with the tools and resources to help you navigate life’s challenges. If you’re ready to prioritize your mental wellness and learn more about self-care, reach out to Ashley today or visit Wellview Counseling’s website for more information.
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