Mental health is important, I think we can all agree on that. I think we can also all agree that it can be hard to make time for dealing with your mental health whenever you've got over 100 assignments, 3 tests, and a paper due.
Sometimes, we find ourselves being stressed and overwhelmed that we put our mental health to the absolute bottom of our to-do list. Sorry bud, but that's not going to help you.
It should always be your number one priority. I'm not saying that you shouldn't do a project because it would stress you out too much, but sometimes you can skip a night of textbook reading to just relax and watch Netflix.
1. Eat well
I could go on and on about the things you should and shouldn't eat, but I've already done that. You know what's good for your body and what isn't. If you're piling up on junk food and coffee, you're not going to feel your best and be your best. So eat well and drink water!! But also enjoy a donut every now and then.
2. Be active
Everyone has at least one type of exercise they like. I personally just enjoy walking and occasionally the elliptical. You don't have to train for a marathon, but go outside! Get some sunshine and fresh air. Yoga is also a great way to be active. It stretches you out, puts you in synch with yourself, and can help you relieve stress.
3. Get sleep
If you take away anything from this blog post, it should be this point right here. You're not going to function properly if you're not sleeping. Stop staying up until 2 am all the time!! Your body needs to rest, even though you might rather be out partying.
4. Focus on real friends
Hanging out with friends who talk about people behind their back all the time or only complain about everything isn't going to be good for your own mental health. I made a goal at the beginning of this school year to only focus on real friends that I know are good for me. It can be hard, but cutting toxic people out of your life is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
5. Volunteer
Do good, feel good. If you're looking for something fun and free, then definitely consider volunteering. Giving back to people (or animals) makes you feel good and helps out people who really need help. I personally love helping out at the animal shelter and walking/playing with the dogs. You're helping their mental health and helping yourself too!
There are so many ways to maintain mental health while in college. All you need to do is think about what makes you happy and focus on that. I'm not saying it's easy, but I promise that it's possible!
You cannot emphasize numbers 3 and 4 enough! Great post :) And I'm also a 20 year old college student named Sarah, hehe
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