Chaotic, exciting, engaging – this is what college life looks life, according to the folds of glossy brochures that captures the posed moments. Working in the chemistry lab for hours, laughing with friends on stupid jokes, playing Frisbee all the time and shopping branded college gear, you’ll be living one of the best periods of your life. However, most of the students go through another storyline that’s not written on the pamphlets. Among the cheery chubby student crowds and quirky clubs, the unwelcome presence of anxiety, depression and pressure resides. Taking students into a new chapter that is outside of their comfort zones, class grades, roommates, part-time jobs, scholarships and the pressure to perform well can take a toll on the mental health of the students.
Many studies have shown that mental illnesses in colleges are increasing as the college environment puts on increasing factors that lead to them. Messed up relationships, over-thinking about everything and especially the unproductive days when you feel like nothing’s going right just seems like the end of the world. A good mental health is essential for any student and help is something that anyone facing problems should seek. Lovely Professional University offers many such programmes and counselling facilities for those who are struggling and wants to be heard. UNI hospital provides regular availability of psychologists and therapists where students can visit directly or book an appointment early through UMS.
A healthy mind nurtures a healthy soul. Here are 4 ways to deal with stress/anxiety in college –
- Put on your gym clothes
Other than the physical benefits, exercise stimulates your brain cells, boosts your mood and relieves stress. The university fitness clubs or gym can help you with this. If you don’t want to splurge on expensive memberships, pick up sporting activities and spend 30 minutes or more on adrenaline every day.
- Cultivate social habits
The fact that you are not best friends with your roommate is okay! Start embracing the new faces at college. Invest your energy and time into people who have a positive vibe. Start new relationships but stay in touch with the old ones, social media can help you with the later. Call or text your family very often, they’re the reason you get to experience college today.
- Take care of yourself before anyone else
In the whirlwind of lectures and practices, slow down and pay attention to your mental and emotional health. Journal every once in a while, get your thoughts out and check in with yourself. If there’s something off, don’t ignore and work on the cause to make it better.
- Get help
If you feel like you are dealing with symptoms of mental health problems, there is nothing wrong with getting it checked out. The taboo of visiting psychologists or psychiatrists is a common affair which you should not believe in. Getting to the roots of your problem early will help you get rid of it faster.
Feeling bottled up? LPU provides round the clock psychological counselling to its students. Contact DSA, Block 15 for more information.
