College is tough, but when you have a mental illness, the normal tough becomes your new easy. Depending on what you're going through, you're going to find that some days will be harder to go through than others, and that you're not always going to want advice or people telling you what to do. I've been very open about having bipolar disorder and anxiety, and I know there are many illnesses out there that all are valid and have different ways of coping. No matter your situation, here are a few things I want for you to remember throughout it all, from one person dealing with it to another.

Your feelings are completely valid.

This applies to anything for any reason. Something that may be making you feel overwhelmed and anxious that others may find to be not as tasking does not make you weaker than them-- you simply may not be able to handle it as easily, especially if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation. If something is irking you more than usual, it's okay. Address it. Ask why it is and what you can do to lessen it, but if it is beyond your control, step away from it and focus on other things if at all possible. You are allowed to feel sad. You can cry. You definitely are allowed to feel happy-- if at all possible, please do.

You can do so, SO much, but you can't be expected to do everything.

Every single thing you accomplish today is astounding-- whether you've done nothing but get out of bed to go to the bathroom and got back in bed or you've done homework and have studied for a test or have done some mixture of the two, you've done something. Every little thing is worth being happy about. Do not push yourself, but do not limit yourself either. Nobody knows your work ethic better than you do, so gauge what you are capable of and do it.

Here's a well-needed puppy break.

Look at those lil puppy eyes.

This pupper is so happy to be a part of this article. Look at it. Gosh.

Look! They're best friends! I love it.

Anyway, back to some more motivational things.

A mental health break day can do wonders.

If you have a day where your classes aren't too taxing or can be easily made up, there is no harm in taking a day or two in the semester to do things that you know help you. This varies from person to person, of course, so find out your best way to unwind and take a few hours just for yourself. Take a shower or bath, clean your room, or do something that will make you feel more organized, as I know I can get more overwhelmed with anything when I'm in a messy environment. Plus, showers are godsends. Eat some chocolate, take a nap, get caught up with homework, go pet animals at your local humane society, or do whatever makes you happy. There's absolutely no shame in doing this. I had to do this multiple times in high school when I couldn't handle being in class, and I've done it once since being here as well. Just make sure it doesn't necessarily become a habit, though-- while your mental health takes priority overall, do keep on track with your classes and make sure to contact professors with questions you have so you can stay on top of things.

Thanksgiving and holiday break are right around the corner.

Aw yeah. Break time. Thanksgiving break is in a week and holiday break is a month and so many weeks away, which means you just gotta get through one more week and then get a break, and then survive a few more and then you'll be able to breathe easy for a while. Just pace yourself and stretch things out so you're not overwhelmed with a certain project on a tight schedule, and reward yourself with things such as naps and coffee and candy. You'll be free soon, just hold tight!

Here's a cute lil kitty cat showing how you're gonna be during break.

You're not alone.

I know that a lot of times, it feels like you're the only one feeling the way you are. You may feel alone or weird or like you are the only one who is in your situation. Of course, you are the only you, and everyone experiences mental illnesses differently, but there is never a time that you are alone. You have me, even if you have no idea who I am, and I am rooting for you and for us. You have helplines and guidance counselors if you need someone to talk to if a friend is unavailable. Keeping this in mind, you are so strong and so capable of dealing with your problems in the way that you know helps you. You got this, and I'm so proud of you. Which reminds me.

I'm so proud of you.

This will be my last thing on this listicle, and I just wanted to say that I'm proud of you for making it this far, for fighting for so long and for standing up for yourself. I am such a big fan of you. You're doing so great. You are so loved and you are so strong. Thank you for being you, and keep fighting through the struggles that college throws at you, reminding yourself of the things I listed above. You're gonna go so far.

Of course, there are so many things I want to say, but if anyone wishes to hear more about how great they are or resources to people who can also help, feel free to contact me and I can help in any way possible! Stay strong!