College is hard. It is. You're away from your parents in a totally new environment and you are expected not only to succeed in classes, but also join clubs, make friends, and keep yourself alive. Add anxiety to the mix and suddenly college seems impossible. But I promise you- it's not. Try these six tips and tricks to help deal with anxiety and make college seem way more possible.
1. Keep in touch with your therapist
This is the most important piece of advice on this list. If you had been going to see a therapist/psychologist/etc. back at home, make your you keep in contact. Whether it be through Skype, phone calls, or even email, no one will help you transition to college better than a professional who knows you.
2. If you are on medication, TAKE IT
Be religious about remembering to take your medicine. You don't want to add withdrawal effects to an already stressful transition. Buy a cute AM/PM pill holder, set an alarm on your phone, anything that will work to remind you to take your meds. Get into the habit sooner rather than later.
3. Utilize every person you can
Feeling overwhelmed? Utilize your support network, and don't be afraid to expand it! Call your mom, dad, or therapist, but don't stop there. Call your grandparents, favorite aunt or uncle, best friend, even your old babysitter! Don't be ashamed to reach out; whoever you contact will be happy you called instead of suffering alone.
4. Make a routine
Making a routine in college can be tough because your class schedule is probably different each day, but putting in the effort is so worth it. Get up at the same time each morning, work out a morning routine that works for your bathroom situation, and go to bed at the same time each night. Write out a schedule for each day hour by hour if it helps. All the new free time you have in college can be overwhelming; a routine will help you settle into your new life and break down your free time into manageable chunks.
5. Get involved on campus
Yes, this sounds cliche and probably a hundred people have told you this already, but get involved! Join a study group, a club, a volunteer group, a sorority/fraternity, anything! Distracting yourself with activities is a great way to keep anxiety at bay while you adjust.
6. Be patient
I'm sorry- you've probably heard this a thousand times before. But nothing makes a new, anxious situation less scary than time. Being patient is easier said than done for sure, but trust me; as someone who has lived through this- it will get better. It may take a few months, but college will get easier and you will learn to adjust- I promise.
