I am not doctor, but i have been dealing with mental illness for 5 years now. I have learned what works for me in both high school and college. I'll tell you what I've learned over the years with my own trial and error.
- Talk to someone
It sounds easy enough, but I know it's not. Some days you feel alone and like no one cares, but it is the opposite. You can talk to teachers, parents, friends, or a school guidance counselor. When i was in high school i would go to my favorite teachers room and talk to her on my lunch. It made me feel not so small in this big world. Now that I'm in college I call my best friend and talk to her about anything that is bothering me and it relaxes me and it don't stress out as much.
My high school teacher who helped me get through high school
- Time Management
School can be overwhelming! I know you feel like you have a million and one things to do and feel like you have zero time to do anything. But you have to remember to prioritize. If you know you have an exam, a paper, and a speech all due on the same day then you have to plan. Paper first then study then speech. With that being said it easy to get wrapped up in school work. Just remember time for yourself and your well-being. Always take "Brain Breaks" and watch one episode of your favorite Grey's Anatomy or something that makes you happy.
- Get Involved
I know it can be easy just to ignore the world, but I don't think it is good for your mental health. Get to know people with common interest. If you like government then get involved with a student government on campus. If you like sports you can find a recreational league. If you like computer games join a gaming club. On a college campus there are so many different people that it is easier to find someone with common interest. In high school there are so many clubs and organizations that teachers are in charge of it makes it easy to join and have fun!
I joined a rowing team with no rowing experience. I loved it!
- Ask for help
It can be scary to ask for help because you want to be independant, but so many people are willing it help. In high school my family and I had a meeting with all of my teachers and told them general information about if I act this way this is why. It opened a door of communication between my teachers and I. In college it's a little different. I went to an office that would help accommodate me and my needs. At the beginning of each semester I would go to all of my professors office hours and just talk to them about the class not about my mental illness because it makes the professors seem let intimidating and it's easier to go ask for help when you really need help.
- Laugh!!
Life can be so serious and difficult at times, but laughing gets your mind off everything from school to your mental illness. Go to a funny movie, hang out with friends, or go do something that makes you happy. Getting your mind off everything is a little escape from reality.
Laughing with my brother
Dealing with mental illness id an everyday struggle and everyday is different. Somedays are worst than others, but you can survive it. I know you can do anything you set your mind to.
Be Strong. Be Amazing. Be You.
