BACK FROM COVID: TAKING CARE OF YOUR MENTAL HEALTH

Take a moment. Breathe. How are you feeling at this very moment? When was the last time you took some time to check in with yourself? The reality of the situation is that mental health is often neglected or depicted as a joke. Were all college students trying to navigate our way through life. Having to juggle a social life, maintain satisfactory grades, manage extracurricular activities, and attempt to save money while simultaneously drowning in student loans (did I mention right after a global pandemic?). Life is hard, but lucky for you, I have a few cheat codes on how to manage!
First things first, create a safe space. This space can be mental or physical but make it specific to you. Decorate your space how you choose and make it your judgement free zone. This space isn’t to impress anyone, but yourself. This space can be your go to when life seems overwhelming or just a place for you to be comfortable. Some of us are far away from home and for many of us, it’s our first time on campus. Being in a new environment can often stir up anxiety or make someone uncomfortable. Your safe space will help with this!
Although your safe space is comforting, it’s best not to lock yourself in there! The best way to get comfortable in a new environment is by being in it. Taking a walk can help you become familiar with your surroundings and is a healthy way to cope. Physical activity is known to reduce the risk of becoming depressed by 30%. It is a great way to let your mind wander and just take in your surroundings.
A great way to manage health is to set goals. These goals can be daily or long term. Having goals set in place gives you something to work towards. Goals can work as a purpose and give us motivation to continue to persist throughout the day. The smallest goal can go a long way. Try focusing on one goal at a time, rather than overwhelming yourself.
Plan a trip! This trip can be a small road trip to an amusement park or a cruise to a tropical island. Planning a trip gives you something to look forward to. Counting down the days and getting excited as you get closer to the date. Then the best part, actually enjoying the trip! It gives you a chance to have a getaway from classes and work.
Be kind. As cheesy as it sounds, what you give is what you receive. Doing a nice act for someone else can enlighten both your mood and their mood, a win-win situation! As stated, we're all struggling with post-pandemic life and you never know what someone is going through. Whether it’s holding the door or leaving a basket of candy out in your residence hall for other residents to take, any act of service can be quite rewarding.
Lastly, take advantage of Widener’s counseling program. We pay tuition!!! Make the most of your money and visit CAPS at the Pineapple House. You can also follow Widener’s mental health account on Instagram, @wu.breathe.
Creating a safe space, going on walks, setting goals, planning a trip, and taking advantage of Widener’s counseling service are just some ways to take care of your mental health! If you or anyone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. We’re all matter, We’re all Widener!