How many times have you said that your life is out of control?

I know I've said it too many times to count.

My schedule is extremely hectic. I've committed to so many things that I honestly don't have downtime anymore (and as an introvert, I NEED downtime). Lately, I've been so exhausted that by the time I get home that I just want to go to sleep.

I guess you could say I've been experiencing both mental and physical burnout. There's only so much my body and mind can handle. Someone told me, "You're not a robot. You can't be everywhere at once and do everything at once."

That was a wake-up call for me. Yeah, I enjoy everything I do, but I need a break. Admitting that was probably the hardest thing I've had to do in a while.

When my grades started to slip, I realized my mental health was deteriorating. It's not like me to skip classes, and guess what? I was skipping classes to study.

I'm ready to start the second half of this semester on a clean slate. I can't get back into my old habits of ignoring my needs. It affects my performance in the classroom, and it damages my relationships. Perhaps most importantly, it damages my well-being.

Everyone talks about the importance of mental health, but it doesn't really hit home until you've experienced rock bottom. Having poor mental health shows in all aspects of your life, especially if you're like me: a high-achieving, perfectionistic student that puts a lot on her plate.

I'm begging you. Consider this.

If you're like me and have been pushing yourself too hard and simply letting your life get out of control, take a step back and reconsider.

Ask yourself a few questions: What is most important to you right now? What can you take a break from until things become less overwhelming? Do you have a plan if things get out of control again?

Yes, some aspects of our lives are out of our control. However, it is your job to admit when you need help managing the things you can control.

If you find your life spiraling out of control, remember that you are human, and address the problem.