Winter term is quite arguably the hardest time of the school year to get out of bed and stay motivated. The cold weather, short days, and hours of classes is enough to keep you cozied up under your blankets all day. Whether you’re dealing with a temporary slump or a tough issue like depression, we have a list of things you can do to take care of yourself and keep your spirits high this winter term!
Preparation is key
By picking out your outfit the night before, packing your notebooks, and prepping some all important snacks, you can relieve a lot of stress for the next morning. These little things seem like they wouldn’t make a difference, but the extra half hour of raiding your closet (and somehow finding nothing) will feel a lot better if you used towards sleeping in, making some French toast, or just slowly easing into the day.
(photo via @coexvst)
Take it one step at a time
If you are having a hard time finding a reason to get up, dreading a certain class, or overwhelmed by your to-do list, try focusing on one thing at a time. Start by telling yourself that all you need to do is simply get up and turn on the light. Continue step by step, concentrating only on the next thing you need to do. This forces your mind to stay present and avoid overwhelming feelings. Before you know it, you’ll be showered and ready to go take on your day.
(photo via @gretchen_reese)
There is no shame in a mental health day
Don’t let what other’s say intimidate you from taking a day for yourself. Your wellbeing is more important than one day of attendance or missed classes. Showing some love to your mental health is just as important as staying home when you’re physically sick. Be kind and gentle to yourself. Work on an assignment, or simply run a bath and read a book. College is challenging and every one of us needs a moment to just breathe and recuperate.
(photo via @oteris)
Practice self-love
There are so many ways to make this happen that are free and easy to do. Shutting your phone off for an hour and meditating is a kind gesture to yourself; painting your nails while watching your fave Netflix show is another. Researching some positive quotes and mantras to write in your planner and hang on your walls can serve as small, but important, reminders. And even treating yourself to a piece of cake or a new pair of shoes can be beneficial. Knowing your own worth can help you show better love and care in other aspects of your life.
(photo via @jaidabrinkley_)
Creating a positive environment
It’s vital to do this mentally and physically. Take some time to clean out your closet and your mind. Befriend people who build you up and make you feel good about yourself, and do the same with the people you follow on social media. If you’re surrounded by images, clutter, and people that bring you down it can be hard to carry the load and shift towards a sense of positivity.
(photo via @mcamiladiaza)
Ask for help when you need it
Unfortunately there’s a societal stigma about asking for help and dealing with mental health complications. But it’s important to know that there is nothing wrong with asking a friend, professor, parent, or counselor for some help with what you’re going through. Friends and family can provide an ear for listening or just a shoulder to cry on. Counselors and professors can point you toward resources to improve your wellbeing and help with schoolwork. You matter and we know you’re rad enough to make it through anything—even the coldest of winter terms!
(photo via @oteris)
