High-stress situations, like college, can make you want to pull your hair out. Sometimes the best thing we can do for ourselves is to remove ourselves from the situation and get a better grip on our sanity. Putting your mental health first is never being selfish -- you deserve a break! Here are a couple ways I've found to help me calm down when life gets crazy.
1. Pointless, yet productive tasks.
Take out the trash, clean your entire room or do your laundry that has been piling up for weeks. These little tasks are a great way to clear your mind, yet still complete chores that you have been continually pushing off. Feeling productive will help clear your mind and get a better grip on your sanity.
2. Eat a treat.
Treating yourself to what you truly want to eat is just fine in moderation. Will pizza truly make you feel better in this moment? If the answer is yes, order one ASAP. Sometimes our favorites things can brighten our mood just enough to help us calm down before getting back to work.
3. Watch a show or movie.
Close all your homework tabs this moment, climb in bed and turn on your favorite show or movie. Removing yourself from whatever is stressing you out and diving into a storyline can really help you remove yourself long enough to calm down. Plus, who doesn't love a good excuse to watch a great movie?
4. Nap.
If you are wearing yourself too thin, you are probably at a new level of exhaustion. Sleep may be just what you need. Catch some z's in the middle of the day, and you will feel ready to be productive again once you wake up a bit more rested. There's no shame in admitting that you are tired and simply need to sleep this one off.
5. Have fun.
Sometimes a little fun can really help you clear your mind. Have a day with no stress and no work every once in a while. Go to the mall with your friends, go to an amusement park or go see a movie. Having a full day fun and zero pressure will make you feel better in no time.
Never feel guilty for admitting that you need a break. No matter how you decide to destress, just know that you truly deserve it; you've been working so hard!
