Mental health is a subject that is sometimes considered taboo. However, it is a big concern for college students, especially because college can be some of the busiest and most demanding times of one’s life. Because of this, I find it hard to understand why mental health isn’t a bigger concern for most college campuses. With this being said, I was more than excited when I found out the week of March 20 to March 26 was Mental Health Awareness Week at my school. In honor of this, here are a few tips to improve one’s mental health in college:

1. Sleep, sleep, sleep

Okay, I get it. College is a crazy-busy time with events going on all of the time…but trust me on this. Sleep is more important. Your friends will still be there in the morning, as will your homework. If you have to choose between a C on a paper and receiving a few more hours of sleep at night, then I strongly encourage you to take the sleep. You will feel more refreshed, focused, and overall stable.

2. Get physical

I’ll be the first one to say it … working out sucks. Running sucks. It all sucks. However, it is proven that exercise can decrease your stress levels significantly. So, even if you can’t make it to the gym for some body shredding workout, consider incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator, or going on a walk around campus instead of eating a whole pizza. Little changes like this will help improve both your physical and mental health.

3. Hygiene

Mental health can sometimes be reflected by one’s physical appearance. Although it is tempting to go to class every day in sweats and an over-sized T-shirt, I challenge you to try to put on something nice every once in a while. I know when my self-confidence is low, it sometimes helps me to put on one of my favorite outfits. Sure, I may have just failed that accounting quiz…but I looked dang good while doing it, and that has to count for something.

4. Surround yourself with people who lift you higher

Okay, okay…I know that sounds cheesy, but it’s true. You’re never going to be happy if you’re surrounded by a bunch of Negative Nancys. Try finding friends who support you, listen to you, and make you laugh. I guarantee having a positive environment will work wonders for your mental health. Plus, you’ll always have someone to turn to on the rough days when all you need is a shoulder to cry on.

5. Take time to yourself

There is a ton of pressure on college students to make stellar grades while still being involved, having a social life, and sleeping at night, but as most of you probably know, this is next to impossible. With all these expectations, one has to pick and choose carefully, and it is really easy to suddenly feel bogged down with responsibilities. So, I encourage you to take a few minutes, or hours, to yourself and do something you love – sleep, eat, watch Netflix, whatever. You’ll feel much calmer, relaxed, and sane (and you might have the chance to catch up on a few episodes of "Grey's Anatomy").