Hello, fellow students! School can be a stressful environment, so it’s critical to look after your mental health. Yes, I know it’s not the most exciting topic, but trust me when I say it’s worth discussing. So, let’s take a look at mental health! You have a lot on your plate as a student. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed with assignments, exams, extracurricular activities, and trying to maintain some semblance of a social life. And, while it may appear that mental health is just another thing to add to your already-exhausting to-do list, it is critical for your overall well-being.
First and foremost, let’s be clear: it’s okay not to be okay. Nobody is always cheerful, and that’s perfectly normal. You might feel sad, anxious, or just plain tired at times. It’s critical to acknowledge those emotions rather than suppressing them and pretending everything is fine. So go ahead and scream into your pillow, cry it out, or just take a moment to breathe. It is also critical to prioritize self-care. This can range from taking a relaxing bath to going for a walk or simply making time to do something you enjoy. No, binge-watching Netflix does not qualify as self-care (though it is a legitimate form of procrastination).
Social support is another important aspect of mental health. This can take many forms, including talking to a friend, joining a club or group, or seeking the assistance of a mental health professional. Don’t be afraid to seek help from those around you; chances are, they’re going through something similar. Remember, there is no shame in seeking assistance. Talk to your teacher or tutor if you’re having trouble with your schoolwork. Consult a guidance counselor if you are feeling overwhelmed.
In addition to these, there are a few more tips that will make your school-life a tad bit easier to get past with all the pressure that comes with it.
Take a break
If not important, then it is essential to take breaks throughout the day to prevent a burnout or an episode of absolute exhaustion. We as humans are prone to succumbing to tiredness as that is the way we were created- no matter how strong we might believe we are. Taking a break will prevent a disastrous outcome and keep us going.
Go for a walk
Regular exercise can benefit your mental health by lowering stress and releasing endorphins. It does not have to be an intense workout session at the gym (although if you wish to go for it, why not?)- a simple walk around the block or a yoga class can do wonders for your mind and body.
Unleash your inner Picasso
Drawing, painting, or writing are examples of creative activities that can help reduce stress and improve mental health. It allows you to express yourself and provides a break from academic life. Plus, academics is not everything! You may have no interests in Mathematics, but what’s to say that you’re not as talented in Arts unless you try it out.
Remember to disconnect
We have often led astray into believing the fake, glamourous and euphoric lives we see on social media. Social media and technology can often contribute to feelings of anxiety and stress. Make sure to take some time each day to disconnect from your phone and computer. In a way, we can say that disconnecting from these short-lived feelings is necessary to keep the connection alive in the long run.
By implementing these unique tips in addition to the basics, you can further improve your mental health and well-being as a student. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health, and it’s crucial to take care of both. So go ahead and get creative, take breaks, stay active, practice gratitude, and disconnect. Your mind will thank you for it.
