Navigating College While Struggling with Mental Health
Because you are your top priority.
by TERESA KURKJY ★ MARCH 31, 2022
Let’s face it… although you can have some of the best times of your life in college, you can also have some of your worst. With so many stressors to balance, such as schoolwork, a social life, relationships (or situationships), and finding your place on campus, students often feel overworked and overwhelmed. Add in anxiety or depression and some college students are at their lowest points.
Being away from family and friends back home and living in a new place brings so many emotions to light. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, you may be wondering how you will be able to navigate the semester with so much on your plate. Luckily, we have some tips as to how to manage your mental health and prioritize your well-being while still having time to enjoy school.
#1: Plan out your day
Though making a to-do list may seem like you’re adding more stress to your life, managing your time will lift a weight off of your shoulders. Do as much work in a day as you please while scheduling time for yourself in between. This could include meditation, listening to your favorite music, or treating yourself to a coffee. You can also check off things on your list as you go, clearing your mental plate.
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#2: Get moving
Whether you’re a gym regular or just love a brisk walk, try to make time during your week to get some exercise. The Barnes Center offers classes that range from kickboxing to yoga to rock climbing. Exercising raises your mood, giving you the physical and mental energy to take on your day as a college student.
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#3: Surround yourself with the right people
Not so into going out all the time? Consider a cozy night in with some Netflix and takeout. This also applies to relationships and/or significant others. If you are not into hookup culture or a situationship is dragging you down, don’t feel the need to participate. Do what feels right for you and your self-esteem and adjust your community accordingly.
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#4: Make time for family and friends
Be reminded of what is important in your life: your loved ones. Being a college student is incredibly stressful, but remember all the people that are rooting for you. Have a girl’s weekend at a local Syracuse restaurant or go out to brunch with a classmate. As for back home, Facetime with Mom or your hometown best friend goes a long way for your well-being.
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#5: Remember that you are not the only one struggling
Young adults are the most susceptible to mental health issues, making us college students the prime target. However, you may feel, know that there are other students that feel the same way and that most college students struggle with mental health at some point or another. You should not be ashamed of how you feel, regardless of how many highlight reels you see on the daily.
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#6: Do seek help
The Syracuse University Barnes Center offers counseling services for students who are struggling and need someone to talk to. Some benefit from medication and therapy, but all people are different. You are not alone, and you deserve to feel good, physically and mentally.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or self-esteem, help is available. Though you are at college for a degree, it all means nothing if your emotional health is at risk. Your mental health is the priority and you will grow as a person if you recognize it.
Syracuse University Counseling Center: (315)-443-8000
Cover Photo Credit: Pinterest