Back in school after the holidays and still not taking care of your mental health?
As college students, we may face a number of mental health challenges. Whether it's the chronic stress about your performance academically, the loneliness and homesickness (even though you're trying to be an adult, you might still miss the comfort of home life), or your struggling with identity and that nagging self-image chatter that can't leave you alone, these are all important issues to address. Fortunately, there are many resources and strategies available to help college students cope with these issues in a healthy way. And, since mental health is a buzz worthy topic "these days", it might be a lot more easier to seek help now than it ever has before. In this article, we will look at how to deal with mental health challenges as a college student.
You may know part of my backstory, and then again, you may not.
Nonetheless, I lost my sh*t when I was in college.
I was free, away from home, surrounded with other people my age doing things on a larger scale than I did in high school. From alcohol, to drugs to losing hours of much needed sleep, overworking, undernourished, burning at both ends and not even aware of what was going on underneath of it all. That was my life at that time.
Hell, it seemed like alcohol and drugs are easier to get than an 'F' in college. And maybe that's still the case. My use of substances during that time didn't appear to be out of the ordinary compared to other classmates, it was completely "normal". However, I had no idea that I was sippin' alcohol and smokin' reefer to help reduce the anxiety and stress, too. And I was stacking on all the pressure from society, my family and my personal performance standards as compounding pressure to be "successful".
And one day, it all came crumbling down.
Look, I'll be right upfront with you.
I was later diagnosed with schizophrenia.
I'm not sure if it was going to happen whether I went to college or not, but I have learned a lot about my own condition in the last decade and a half, and mental health in general, since the first of my many psychotic episodes. (Side note, growing up, I moved nearly a dozen times before the start of high school...sometimes to different counties and even different states. Along the way, I missed a TON of education, so my grammar might need some work. I'll keep getting better the more I do this. The point of me doing all this is to spread the message and to help others. Thanks for being considerate.)
Scroll down to read how to care for your mental health as a college student.
1. Understand the importance of mental health
Wake up. Being aware of your own mental health is just as important as taking care of our physical health. We know this, but are we doing it? Understanding the importance of your mental wellbeing means knowing when to seek help, being tuned in to your thoughts and emotional state, and understanding how to take care of yourself. It's also important to remind yourself that you are unique and that everyone has different needs and coping strategies, so it's important to find what works for you and do it, and maybe just as importantly, what doesn't work for you and stop. Taking the time to learn more about your mental wellbeing can help you take responsibility for getting familiar with the tools necessary to create a joyful, peaceful and healthy lifestyle while in the midst of all the college stressors and pressures.
2. Know where to get help on campus
Most college campuses have a range of available resources for mental health support. Talking to friends, family members, and counselors can provide valuable insight and guidance into how to manage your mental health. If you need additional support, check with the college’s health center for information on a range of services such as therapy, counseling, psychiatric evaluation and medication management as needed. I already feel some of the contracted-ness from some people reading this...I know...seeking help in that way probably makes you feel like there's something wrong with you and you feel ashamed, guilty, vulnerable and probably anxious about potential criticism. I've felt that too. It's not your fault, and you didn't ask for this challenge, however, if you neglect it, it could be more detrimental. I have found that being around others around my same age going through something similar can ease the tension, and many colleges offer student groups and activities centered around mental health topics which can be a great way to connect with other students going through similar struggles. Consider it if you have this opportunity.
3. Learn about healthy coping strategies
Learning about healthy coping strategies is an important part of taking care of your mental health. Everyday activities such as reading, writing, and exercising are all simple ways to give yourself an emotional boost. Talking to trusted friends and family members can help you process your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Additionally, mindfulness and meditation practices provide a space for self-reflection which can help you understand yourself and build better habits down the line. I call this being kind to my future self. Practicing good self-care can also be helpful; get enough sleep, eat nutritious foods, and try new hobbies that bring you joy. We know this, however, I have also been in situations where all of this advice doesn't do jack for me. In that case, you might have to take it to the next level. Thought work can be beneficial. We weave together these stories in our minds and add pressure to perform, and sometimes you simply need to have someone reflect what your experiencing as a way to kind of "check your work". That could be a therapy practitioner or coach like me or someone you fit well with, whoever it is, seek them and get a sample of their style if you can.
(one caveat...ask if your coach, therapist or psychoanalyst has a coach, therapist or psychoanalyst themselves. We're human, and we have blindspots and judgements and criticisms that get in our way regardless of our titles, that projection in your sessions might not be helpful, so to know they are doing the work too might reduce the fear of their judgements on you.)
4. Establish and maintain healthy relationships with peers and mentors
Establishing and maintaining healthy relationships with peers and mentors is essential for a strong support system. Connecting with people in your classes, clubs, or dorms can be a great way to make friends that understand your struggles and offer advice (if you are asking for it) or to simply listen. In addition to this, having a mentorship relationship with someone you admire and trust can help you stay motivated, gain new skills and perspectives, and develop meaningful relationships. Regularly reaching out to your peers, mentors, and family members can create more supportive habits that align with the person you wish to be and the achievements you wish to accomplish. This could bring a lasting impact on your mental wellbeing.
5. Investigate resources available for mental health services
Investigating resources available for mental health services is important to ensure that you have the right support system in place. It's like doing research about the school you are in or the job you want. Start by talking to your doctor or mental health provider about any issues you may be facing and what kinds of services they can provide. If you only have a primary care doctor, start there. You can also look into online counseling, support groups, and therapy sessions with a trusted professional. Also, many schools, universities, and organizations offer mental health resources like hotlines and websites full of helpful information. With so many options available, it's important to take the time to research them to find out which ones are best for you.
Remember, you will most likely feel shame about seeking mental health support. It's been stigmatized for decades. You're carrying that inside of you somewhere. It's bound to happen. What I wish for you to take from that is that if you allow that to stop you, you might be limiting your own growth, dreams and aspirations. Even some of the best had psychologists by their side. Whether you like him or not, Michael Jordan had a well known psychologist that he leaned on when the stakes were high. How could knowing that support your growth?
6. Create a plan for self-care habits and stick to them
Creating a plan for self-care habits and sticking to them is essential for harmony in your life and managing stress. Experiment and be consistent. Taking time to do activities that bring you joy and taking regular breaks can help you stay focused when working on tasks. Consider setting aside time to connect with friends or family, take a walk outside, or create a practice of mindfulness for better mental wellbeing. Journaling can be helpful for tracking moods and emotions in order to recognize patterns and identify areas where self-care is needed most. Developing these habits over time can create long term positive effects on our emotional wellbeing.
Look, I don't mean to be giving you advice with the intention to be seen as better than you. I'm sure you have considered all of these things, or will after reading this...you might do them, you might not. And that's fine too.
The most important part I wish to share is that people are here if you ever need them to be.
You might not know them, and then again, you might know them very well. Regardless, it's important to know yourself, what you want, what's blocking you (most of the time it's ourselves) and how you can be proactive in your own thought work. I'll do my part to keep sharing my insights and complete busts with you to learn from and to laugh about.
Follow me for more.
I truly wish you well.
David "Shrink" Boyle
Monumental Coaching
Your Head Coach
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