It has been a tough couple of years for college students as colleges have been forced to adopt measures to mitigate the spread of the virus. Students face numerous challenges, including reduced mobility, limited access to financial support, and increased uncertainty regarding what the future holds.
Recent data shows that 25% of students postponed college during the coronavirus pandemic, some indefinitely. Problems abound, but there are ways to navigate student life during these challenging times successfully.
As many colleges start to open their doors to welcome students back, there is a need to focus on these learners' mental and physical health. This article highlights some lifestyle tips to adopt as a college student during the pandemic.
1. Prioritize Your Resilience And Interests
When faced with challenges such as the ones we currently encounter, most people choose to focus on the negatives and how their lives may change for the worse. However, this is the perfect moment to pay attention to your resilience. To have gotten this far, you have likely overcome numerous challenges that may have seemed impossible.
Have some confidence in your capacity to get through the hurdles you presently face. If you need assistance, search for an online essay writing service.
2. Create And Follow A Routine
When stressed, falling out of our regular routines and developing unhealthy habits can be easy. Even without the pandemic, college was frustrating, with tons of assignments, classes, and extracurriculars. Things are likely to be more challenging now that students have been home for a considerable period. Now, more than ever, students need to create and follow routines.
Having a schedule to follow not only creates a semblance of normalcy but also ensures that you complete your projects on time. A routine means trying to wake up and going to bed at the same time each day. If you cannot join a gym, embrace simple and easy workouts to remain healthy.
3. Eat Healthy Meals
According to the WHO, no food or dietary supplement can prevent Coronavirus. However, a healthy diet is essential for supporting the immune system and getting students the energy they need to navigate college life. Note that proper nutrition can also lower your risk of developing specific health problems, such as heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.
We understand that you are likely working with a tight budget. However, healthy meals don't have to be too expensive. Budget for food, making sure to prioritize fruits and vegetables. As you plan your meals, create room for fiber-rich portions. In the end, what you eat benefits your weight, health, and energy levels.
4. Exercise Regularly
Exercise comes in many forms, including running, jogging, weight-lifting, walking and dancing. Evidence shows that being physically active comes with numerous mental and physical benefits. For instance, those who exercise tend to feel much happier and deal with stressors better. In other words, exercise improves an individual's moods and can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Exercise triggers changes in the part of the brain that regulates anxiety and stress while also increasing neural sensitivity to norepinephrine and serotonin hormones, which relieve depressive feelings. Additionally, exercise helps with weight loss and boosts self-esteem.
5. Monitor Your Social Media Use
One of the most important things you can do for yourself when in college is focus and avoid distractions. While you need to remain informed of the events around you, you need to prioritize your well-being. Social media can be so consuming that people forget their core responsibilities.
Limit the time you spend on the platforms and regulate your intake of harmful content. Constantly going through such media can make you feel more anxious and less controlled.
6. Maintain Social Contact
We all need to keep in touch with our social support systems. Evidence shows that social supports allow students to improve their resilience and achieve academic goals. During the pandemic, rules on social distancing have meant that people have to remain apart physically. However, we can still stay in touch with loved ones. Social networks and communication technology offer innovative solutions.
7. Seek Professional Help If You Need It
We live in an unprecedented era, and students may need professional support from time to time. If you feel overwhelmed and in urgent need of counselling, don't hesitate to talk to your college counselor. Also, numerous online therapy services offer competent and discrete support.
Collegiate Conclusion
The pandemic has introduced numerous challenges to modern life, forcing serious changes to the education sector. As college students adjust to the new normal, they need to work on their resilience and survival skill. To thrive, pay attention to your needs, work on your social networks, and prioritize your health.
