Don’t forget to make time for yourself
A social life, good grades, and an adequate amount of sleep. Choose one—maybe two—but not all three.
This statement may seem true and relatable, especially when you are behind on three weeks worth of readings. You haven’t seen your friends in what seems like ages, and you don’t know whether there’s more blood in your veins than there is coffee.
With midterm season just around the corner, here are a few tips and reminders on managing stress and juggling life as a student.
Write everything down
Writing things down is key; even if the first point in your to-do list is to look at your to-do list. By writing lists—grocery and/or to-do lists, homework assignments, due dates, or your friend’s birthdays—you are guaranteed to remember important tasks and reminders.
Take time to relax…
Although it may seem like common knowledge, it is very important to take a deep breath, and take time for yourself to unwind. Whether you clean your room or watch your favourite Netflix series, it is important to recognize that your mental health needs a break from stress too.
… But not too much time
Taking a break is needed and recommended, however, it is also important to remember to get back on track, and—as tempting as it may be—to stop yourself from watching the entire television series in one sitting. Make sure that you don’t get too sidetracked from taking a break that you forget what you are taking a break from altogether.
Surround yourself with the ones you trust
During times of high stress, be sure to have someone that you can confide in. Whether you talk to your T.A. for extra help, call up a friend to make you laugh when you are feeling particularly stressed, or face-time your mom and dad to say hi to your cat; it is important not to isolate yourself when you are vulnerable to stress.
Keep a healthy and positive lifestyle
Though a night out may be fun in the moment, the morning after will most likely leave you feeling groggy and hitting the snooze button repeatedly. Eating healthy, drinking lots of water, and remembering to go to bed earlier helps you feel replenished and rejuvenated, letting you conquer whatever is thrown your way!
Photo courtesy of Mabel Amber® ***Pluto5339*(CC0 1.0).