The implications of Covid- 19 have presented significant challenges to all individuals in countless aspects of their lives’. Specifically, as college students attempt to navigate the unfamiliar reality, they are ridded of a significant portion of their four year experience. This can result in a negative outlook, which can be detrimental to overall happiness. To avoid mental hardships and promote positivity, we have created an in depth list of the top 10 ways college students can cope with the effects of Covid- 19.
- Know that it is ok to feel the way you feel: During these unprecedented times, it is normal to have feelings of sadness, anger, frustration, anxiety, or all of the above. Choose to share these feelings with others rather than tackle them alone. There is no doubt that your peers are experiencing similar feelings, and are willing to discuss how to best handle them.
- Seek out the positives: It is easy to focus on the negative aspects of the alterations that Covid- 19 has brought about. However, if you challenge yourself to seek out the positives in each situation, you can embrace the “new normal.” Rather than concentrating on what Covid- 19 has taken away from your college experience, think about the unique aspects of your experience that can be beneficial in the long run.
- Keep a journal: Dedicate a journal to jotting down your thoughts at the end of each day. List any challenges the implications of Covid- 19 have created on a given day, and describe how you did or can overcome that barrier. Using journaling as an outlet has been proven to help keep your thoughts organized, relieve stress, allow you to self-reflect, and set and achieve goals.
- Reach out to a family member or friend: Covid- 19 has hindered the ability to see many loved ones, whether that be due to the risk of infecting others or the inability to travel. Reaching out to those we haven’t had the chance to see can allow us to share our thoughts with others, as well as acknowledge different perspectives. Choose to set up a video call to facilitate authentic conversations, rather than relying on texts and emails.
- Find creative ways to have fun: With most of your time dedicated to furthering your education via online classes, it is important to find alternative ways to have fun. Check out our article on the 10 Ways For College Students to Have Fun During Covid-19.
- Find a relaxation technique that works for you: To manage the stress associated with being a college student in the age of Covid- 19, find relaxation techniques that are effective for you. Some techniques include deep breathing, muscle relaxation, meditation, visualization, mindfulness and yoga. Implementing these techniques into your daily routine can slow your breathing and heart rate, lower your blood pressure, and bring your body and mind back into balance. Try out different apps and programs run by your university to guide you in these different techniques.
- Maintain a routine: Although a lack of obligations may tempt students to stay in bed all day, it is important that you choose to follow a routine. Waking up each morning and brushing your teeth, finding time to be active each afternoon, and keeping a relatively similar bedtime can allow you to create structure. This can reduce stress as well as improve sleep and overall health.
- Take time for yourself each day: Rather than letting your days feel consumed with school work and boredom, make time to do something you love. This can range from a skincare routine to cooking a meal, to a hobby. Setting aside this time will improve your motivation, health, and productivity, as well as inspire you to have a new outlook on life and build stronger relationships.
- Focus on building friendships: As Covid- 19 continues to restrict the ability to have large gatherings, a prominent characteristic of college campuses, students are forced to rely on other methods to build relationships. Use this time to bond with friends one on one or in small groups. You can do so by going out to meals, studying, or working out with others.
- Be mindful of exposure to news: As news regarding Covid- 19 continues to spread both nationally and on college campuses, students may feel a threat to their hope of returning to normalcy. It is important to stay informed, yet be aware of how the news is making you feel. Taking breaks from the news by turning off the television or setting aside your phone can be extremely beneficial to your mental health. This can help build resiliency for the stressful news in the future.
