I struggle with depression and anxiety, two mental illnesses that can be greatly exacerbated by the ins and outs of college (and life in general). Having to deal with stresses of both college and mental illness(es) can be extremely overwhelming and confusing, so if you need a place to start or you’re just looking for new tips, then these key lessons may help you:
1. If you can, get a therapist and, if necessary, start medication
Don’t doubt the power therapy and medication can give you in managing your mental illness; I personally wouldn’t be able to recognize the amount of personal growth I've achieved without my therapist’s support. However, therapy and medication, like college, are privileges, and if you can't afford either, at least talk to your university about free resources they provide.
2. Practice self-care
Self-care is one of the biggest things mentally ill people struggle with, but it’s also one of the most important things to focus on in order to ensure you’re happy and healthy. Remind yourself to eat, drink water, do laundry, get enough sleep, etc., and when you can, take time to pause, breathe, and check in with yourself.
3. Stay organized and find a good routine
Routines can be your best friend, and organizing a strong one is a key way to combat feelings of apathy or angst. I find that utilizing both a planner for my course assignments and a small notebook for my daily “to-dos” significantly eases my anxiety.
4. Get out of your room at least once a day
As difficult as this can be, I cannot stress how vital leaving your room is; while it can feel impossible to even get out of bed, you’ll feel better if you get up and out to bathe or get some water or food. Sometimes your room can be a safe escape, but other times it can be a prison, so it’s crucial to realize when you’re feeling comforted and when you’re feeling trapped.
5. Don’t be afraid to take a personal day
“The world doesn’t stop for anyone” is a phrase I’ve heard more times than I wish (which, if I had it my way, would be zero) and may unfortunately also be one you hear. However, don’t feel guilty about needing to take a day out of your schedule to evaluate how you’re doing and care for yourself.
6. Try to better understand yourself
Some thoughts and feelings aren’t productive or happy, but they’re still a part of you, so it’s important not to ignore them. Something I continue to work on is trying not only to acknowledge that I’m feeling or thinking a certain way but to understand why. Learning about and reflecting on where your thoughts, feelings, reactions, etc. stem from is a huge part of self-growth and resilience.
7. Be kind to yourself
It’s OK to not be OK, and as cliche as this sounds, it’s a good mantra to learn. Not every day will be good, but so long as you focus on what you can control, you can get through even the toughest ones. You aren’t “lazy,” “selfish,” “crazy,” or “making excuses,” you’re taking steps to ensure you’re safe and healthy.
8. Be proud of your accomplishments
No matter how small, don’t undersell your achievements. If you got out of bed, showered, ate, or even just drank water, you should be proud of yourself; if not, that’s OK — mental illness is tough, and you can always motivate yourself to do one small thing tomorrow. In the words of Donna and Tom from "Parks and Recreation," "Treat yo self." If you did something to take care of yourself or fulfill an obligation, then give yourself some love.
9. Remember what works for you
Don’t be embarrassed about aspects of self-care that benefit you. I, for one, find that even turning on "The Office" cheers me up, and making time to watch entertaining or comforting shows and movies is a big part of my self-care routine. Taking baths, embroidering, drinking tea, playing video games, and doing grounding exercises (like focusing on physical sensations) are helpful activities I engage in, as well.
10. Never be ashamed of your mental illness
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