1. You are worth it:
Avoid self-criticism and be gentle and respectful to yourself. Consider expanding your horizons or scheduling more of your favorite pursuits and activities. Do a crossword puzzle every day, start a garden, learn to dance, pick up an instrument, or master a foreign language.
2. Look after your body:
Your mental health can be enhanced by taking care of your physical needs. Ensure you:
- Don’t smoke or vape;
- Take in a lot of wate;
- Eat balanced meals;
- Exercise improves spirits and reduces melancholy and anxiety
Get adequate rest. Lack of sleep, according to researchers, is a factor in the high occurrence of depression among college students.
3. Surround yourself with decent individuals:
Healthier individuals tend to be those with strong social or family ties as opposed to those with no such network. Plan events with empathetic family members and friends, or look for opportunities to socialize with new people at a club, class, or support group.
4. Permit yourself to:
Spend some time and effort helping someone else. You’ll feel good knowing that you’ve made a real difference in the life of someone else, and it’s a fantastic way to make new friends. For suggestions, check out Fun and Cheap Things to Do in Ann Arbor.
5. Discover coping mechanisms for stress:
Stress is a natural part of life, like it or not. Practice healthy coping mechanisms by using Tai Chi, One-Minute Stress Strategies, exercise, nature walks, pet play, or journal writing as a stress reliever. Also, don’t forget to laugh and find the funny in everything. According to studies, laughing can improve your immune system, lower stress, relax your body, and lessen discomfort.
6. Calm your thoughts:
Try mindfulness exercises, prayer, or meditation. Prayer and relaxation techniques can enhance your mental health and view on life. In fact, studies suggest that meditation may promote calmness and boost the benefits of therapy. See spiritual resources on Personal Well-being for Students to connect.
7. Make sensible objectives:
Determine your academic, professional, and personal goals, and then list the measures you must take to accomplish them. Aim high, yet remain grounded and avoid overcommitting. As you go closer to your objective, you’ll experience a fantastic sense of pride in yourself. You can set goals and maintain them with the free wellness coaching available to University of Michigan students.
8. Disrupt the tedium:
A small change of pace can liven up a dull schedule, even while our routines increase our productivity and strengthen our sentiments of security and safety. Change up your jogging routine, make travel plans, go for a stroll in a different park, hang some new art, or try a new eatery. For further suggestions, see Rejuvenation 101.
9. Steer clear of booze and other drugs:
Limit your alcohol intake and stay away from other substances. Alcohol and other drugs are occasionally used as “self-medication,” but in actuality, they just make issues worse. To learn more, go to Alcohol and Other Drugs.
10. Seek assistance when you need it:
Asking for assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Additionally, it’s crucial to keep in mind that treatment works. When given the right care, people can overcome their addictions and mental illnesses and enjoy fulfilling lives. Campus and local resources are listed under Resources for Stress and Mental Health.
*Adapted from the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare and the National Mental Health Association
