It's no secret that college is stressful. From learning to live on your own to classes that continuously beat you down, university life can be very damaging to the mental health of the student. I'm only a freshman and I have already wanted to give up and move back home way too many times to count. It's easy to feel overwhelmed and not sure of your next step. From the mind of someone who just failed their first exam ever, here are 10 things to do when you just don't know what to do anymore.
1. Go for a walk
Clear your head. Chances are you're being too hard on yourself over something that you can't change. Let the beauty of nature infiltrate your mind.
2. Call your mom
She can't change your grade but she will definitely tell you that you're the smartest person on this planet. All in all, moms know how to shoot up your self confidence when college makes it plummet.
3. Go to bed
I know what it's like to be so overwhelmed to the point of crying. Sometimes, a quick power nap can relieve stress and give you the energy you need to tackle your work load.
4. Make a plan
Figure out what will help you moving forward. Create a study schedule. This may seem childish but it will keep you on track for what you need to. A lot of times in college, I have found myself getting carried away and forgetting multiple things. A calendar will ensure that you are doing things when they need to be done.
5. Cook
While it's not the same as a home-cooked meal from your mom, a self-made meal will distract you and keep you from eating that miserable dining hall food. You're already sad enough, let's not add to it.
6. Take a shower
Cleanse yourself of that bad grade. Let the water wash away your worries. You may emerge still stressed out but at least you're clean now.
7. Work out
Take out all the pent up tension on a good, hard work out. The endorphins released during your exercise will leave you in a much more positive mood than you were in before.
8. Organize your space
Just the act of cleaning makes me feel much more put together. By organizing your work space, you are setting yourself up for success. New space, new you.
9. Look up inspirational quotes
This may be cheesy but it definitely works. Call it self-empowerment. Reading inspirational quotes online makes me want to run for president. I can do anything. Except that math exam. I couldn't do that.
10. Treat yourself
Go shopping. Eat a brownie. Splurge a little. You deserve it. You're doing the best you can, don't beat yourself up.
