Going to college for the first time is one of life’s biggest accomplishments. While there are plenty of exciting things to look forward to, it’s normal to feel anxious about all the changes ahead as well. If you’re preparing to start college soon, you might be wondering how to ease some of the stress and calm your nerves. Read on for some tips that will help you adjust to life on campus more easily, so you can make the most out of the academic year.
Take Things Slow at First
Since college is such a sudden change, it can be really overwhelming if you charge full-steam ahead. Don’t force yourself to say yes to everything, be it going to a club or going to a party. It’s not worth the hassle if it means being constantly stressed out. By taking things slow, you give yourself time to expand your comfort zone rather than try to operate outside of it. It’s okay to not be as eager as everyone else to embrace college living. Prioritize what needs to be done first, like attending classes and assignments. These are the most important tasks, so you can structure other things around them to reduce stress.
Reach Out for Support
There is nothing worse than struggling and feeling like it’s you against the world. If you’re overwhelmed and feel like you have nowhere to go or anyone to turn to, now’s the time to reach out. Whether it’s your family, friends, or your college roommate, emotional support is a necessity. If you chose to attend your orientation course, you should know that your college offers you various services. One of these services may include telehealth. Telehealth is a virtual visit to a doctor or therapist. You can receive care, advice, and anything else you may need with just the click of a button. If you need to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, check out this guide on coping with stress and anxiety as a college student. This will give you a good idea of what resources might work best for you.
Avoid Procrastination
Procrastination is a common response to anxiety. Avoiding things that make you stressed might seem like a good idea at the time, but it only continues the cycle. If you’re struggling with motivation, try to break down your tasks into easier goals. Even something as small as turning on your laptop can be an objective. Walk yourself through challenges, and prioritize things based on how demanding they are, how much energy you have and what needs to be done first.
Take a Break When You Need It
Pushing yourself beyond your limits won’t do you any favors. If you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s important to set boundaries and respect when you need to step back. Taking time to practice self-care will allow you to cope with stress and anxiety in a healthy way. If you keep charging forward when you’re not feeling up to it, you’re more likely to have less energy and experience less-than-desirable results. Set aside time to have at least 10 minutes of rest every hour of work or study. When you need a day off, plan ahead so you don’t feel like you’re blowing off responsibilities. Remember, resting well is just as important as working hard.
