Coming back to campus after a full month away is super exciting. For a lot of people, it's like coming back home. You get to see all of your friends and immerse yourself back into an independent lifestyle.
But, on the other hand, it can be incredibly stressful at times. Coming back to school for the second semester also means a brand new schedule of classes that you have to get used to, piles of homework, exams, clubs that pick back up, relationships (both platonic and romantic), and so much more.
You just spent a full month away with little to no responsibilities or deadlines, and all of the sudden you are thrown back into the thick of it.
On top of all of these external factors that cause us large portions of stress and anxiety is the pressure that we put on ourselves. This can often be the tipping point that throws us over the edge into a complete stress-induced meltdown.
On another note, it is vital to remember that all this stress is not unbeatable. There are many things you can do to help ease your anxiety when you're feeling overwhelmed with what's going on in your academic and/or social life.
Whether that means going on a walk to clear your head, having a well-deserved pamper night with friends, doing yoga, seeing your advisor, or even just taking a break with Netflix -- do what you need to do to slow the stress of the second semester down.
And please, always remember that your mental health is so much more important than a grade. If it ever comes to a point where you just cannot handle it on your own anymore, do not hesitate to talk to someone -- whether it be a licensed professional, a parent, a friend, or a professor.
I wish you all the best of luck during this second semester, you got this!