It's normal to feel like your life is spiraling out of control at any stage of your life, but college students in particular seem to experience such moments of panic and stress on a regular (read: weekly) basis. Here's an incomplete list of steps that I like to take in order to dig myself out of this pit of overwhelming emotions. Remember to breathe, refocus yourself, and regain some perspective; you'll be just fine!
1. Write a thank you letter.
No, seriously. You can actually send it or keep it for yourself (although I highly recommend the former). I’m not talking about the perfunctory, fill-in-the-blanks notes that your mom made you write when you were seven. I’m talking about the kind of writing that makes you reflect on something that you’re deeply, genuinely grateful for. It could be a person, a place, a trip, or really anything that you’ve grown to appreciate because of how it has impacted you. Getting these thoughts onto paper or a computer screen will leave you with a tangible reminder of at least one major positive factor in your life.
2. Listen to music.
Whether you prefer nostalgia-inducing jams (I’m looking at you, Hannah Montana soundtrack) or high-energy music borrowed from your cardio playlist, make sure you have some go-to songs for times like these. I’ve curated my own Spotify playlist full of upbeat indie pop music to lift my spirits, and you can either create your own or follow one of Spotify’s many playlists designed for this specific purpose!
3. Work it out.
There’s a reason some people turn to exercise when they’re not feeling too great; studies have shown that putting your body through the physical stress of a workout releases key neurotransmitters (such as endorphins, serotonin, and norepinephrine), which can reduce negative feelings like stress and sadness. Not only does exercise provide immediate mood-boosting benefits, but it may also better equip your body to deal with future stressors. So in a way, those burpees may mitigate that panicky feeling that you get when you’re later hit by a fast-approaching deadline or relationship drama.
4. Escape (if only for a moment) with a book or movie.
Entertainment was designed to provide an alternate reality in which its readers or viewers can find solace. Action movies and adventure novels sweep you into someone else’s fast-paced story to keep your mind off your own; comedies and satire bring some light and laughter (aka the best medicine) into your life; dramas remind you that everyone’s life kind of sucks at one point or another. Whatever genre of film or literature you choose, you’re bound to find something that helps you deal with or at least momentarily escape your current situation.
5. Get organized.
This one might seem a bit out of place, but if your workspace and/or room are in disarray, it can contribute to higher stress levels and make you feel overwhelmed. Sometimes, tidying up can help you regain a bit of control over some aspect of your life, even if that just means sorting out the fire hazard that you call your desk.
6. Find the root of it.
Even if you don’t keep a journal, find somewhere to scribble your negative thoughts. Break down why you’re feeling this way. Are you sad because of drama within your friendships? Stressed because of a big project? Lonely because you haven’t spent much time with others? Whatever it is, try to find the root of your emotions; even if you can’t come up with actions to chip away at this stress, getting these thoughts out of your head can help you focus on other, more positive things.
7. Call a friend (or your mom).
A familiar voice and someone who can see you from an external perspective will do wonders to ground you. These important friends and family members can remind you that even if you feel like you’re falling apart, everything will be fine before you know it.
