While in college, I have discovered that the life transformation of moving from a very irresponsible high-school student to a semi-responsible college student involves overcoming extremely unhealthy obstacles and vices. During my first semester in college, I discovered that the world was truly my oyster- and I was given the ultimate freedom to do whatever I pleased in my spare time with very little restrictions. While freedom can be refreshing, it can certainly be daunting at the same time- especially when you have so much freedom to make choices that feel good, but not necessarily are good. For this article, I've compiled a list of ten unhealthy habits that I, and others, have learned how to avoid (or at least manage) while immersing myself in university life.
1. Over Eating
Over-eating while in college is a surprisingly easy thing to do. Make sure to be aware (and wary) of the freshmen 15. Avoid all-you-can-eat buffets, drink plenty of water, and if you're not hitting the gym, be sure to at least get plenty of exercise by exploring your college campus on foot.
2. Excessive Drinking
The idea of getting completely blasted can be appealing as the option to do so was at one point strictly forbidden, but keep in mind that over-doing it can lead to some serious regrets (and headaches) the next day. To consume alcohol while being safe, remember to, recall how your age, sex, weight, and other factors can contribute to your alcohol levels, learn about what one standard drink looks like for various kinds of alcohol, and remember to NEVER get into a vehicle with someone who has been drinking!!!
3. Going Out Too Much
Remember- you are NOT paying thousands of dollars (or your parents aren't paying thousands of dollars) a year strictly for the nightlife. Plus, avoiding going out too much means more sleep and less cramming for tests and exams- you'll thank yourself later!
4. Not Going Out Enough
Moderation is key- for everything on this list but especially the idea of going out. If you avoid going out ever for fear of your grades, you'll miss out on friends, fun, and the opportunity to let loose after a stressful week. Remember to treat yourself- just carefully!
5. Skipping Classes
Though I can't relate nearly as much to this one, many of my peers can. Many professors will begin dropping percentage points off of your final grade for the course for missing too many classes, and you will find that missing one class in college carries even more weight than missing a full day of high school! To avoid skipping, make getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep the night before a priority.
6. Not Sleeping Enough
There is so much to do, and so little time to do it- and while getting several hours of sleep at night can feel like a waste of time, remember that getting more sleep increases your productivity for the next day!
7. Drinking Too Much Coffee
In college, there's the notion that drinking coffee can solve all of your problems- as much as I'd love to say that this is true, it isn't. Remember the health risks of drinking too much coffee and other caffeinated beverages and moderate your coffee consumption with water.
8. Smoking
Though fewer college students are smoking today than twenty years ago, this is an important one because it is the hardest habit on this list to give up. Take it from me, don't try it. Not even once. It doesn't even taste good.
9. Visiting Home Too Often
Plenty of students get homesick while in college, I know I sure did- and my family was only 20 minutes away! Keep in touch with your family over phone calls, social media and text messaging. They know you're doing something great with your life, and you'll see them very soon. Visiting home too often means less time truly enjoying the college experience.
10. Not Taking Care Of Your Mental Health
The most important one on this list because your mental health can determine how each and every other item on this list affects you and your life. Remember to relax. Meditation, yoga and writing are all great coping mechanisms, but if there is something none of these things can fix, always see a doctor. Know that YOU and YOUR health comes before everything else college has to offer. Take care of yourself and do good.
