Self-care, by definition, is is any necessary human regulatory function which is under individual control, deliberate and self-initiated. Basically, acts that we chose to do to take care of ourselves. Examples are unplug for an hour or even taking a nap.

In college, self-care can be something we push aside. Between tests, papers, projects, activities, and trying to have a social life, some times we forget about what we need personally for ourselves.

I've learned that your self-care needs to come first. Yes, even before school. If you aren't taking care of yourself, odds are you aren't going to do that well because you aren't at your best.

It's okay to take a break from an assignment or not going to a club meeting, if it's going to help you mentally. There are simply times where stepping back is the best option. Take the time to do stuff that makes you happy.

You don't have to focus 24/7 on school work or to-do lists, especially when you are at your breaking point.

Learning self-care tools early will help you for the rest of your life. There will always be times when you are stressed and overwhelmed. It's important to know what you need to do for yourself in those times.

Don't let pressure convince you to put your self and your mental health on standby. Those are the important things. They matter, even if others tell you they don't.

Not taking care of yourself can have a lot of bad consequences now and in the future. So, be selfish and put your self first.