Let’s be honest… college can feel overwhelming. Cramming for exams, meeting new people, trying to follow a schedule, pulling all-nighters, the list goes on.
College where you’re “supposed” to find your path, make new friends, and prepare for the future. But let’s be real—college can also feel like being thrown into the deep end, trying to keep your head above water while balancing a ton of bricks labeled “assignments,” “expectations,” and “social life.” Along the way, you might find yourself struggling with things like stress, anxiety, low self esteem, and depression.
For some, from the moment you set foot on campus, it feels like you’re running a marathon with your brain. It’s all about finding that sweet spot between keeping your GPA up and not turning into a caffeinated zombie.
Making friends, finding your people, and all the while navigating the drama that can come with new connections… sometimes sounds easier said than done. Maybe it feels like being in a reality TV show, but you’re not getting paid for it.
Then.. there is… our mental health. Stress, anxiety, the blues… they can sneak up on you. But guess what? It’s super normal, and there’s a ton of options for support.
Surviving College Without Losing Your Mind
From the moment you step onto campus, it feels like a marathon. Classes, labs, papers, friends, self care, food, bills, and exams—it can feel overwhelming.
Some tips that might help you along the way:
Time Management: A planner can be a lifesaver—literally. Scribble down your deadlines, make a to-do list, and find time for fun. Yes, fun is non-negotiable. Sticky notes, reminder apps, whatever helps.
Study Smarts: It’s not just about hard work; it’s about smart work. Are you tired AF from cramming all night? Try out different study methods, group sessions, or hit up the tutoring center, body doubling, pomodoro. Sometimes, two (or three) brains are better than one. Develop a study plan that plays to your strengths. Whether it’s visual aids for memory, interactive apps for engagement, or peer-led study groups for collaboration, find what works for you.
Active Recall & Spaced Repetition: These aren’t just fancy terms but proven strategies to enhance memory and learning. Flashcards, quizzes, and periodic reviews can significantly improve retention and understanding.
Social stuff: Building Your Group of People
College is as much about the people you meet as the things you learn.
Finding Your People: College can be difficult, there are so many people, but maybe you don’t know any of them and feel super alone (you aren’t the only one who feels this way). Clubs, teams, study groups—you name it. Dive in, try new things, and don’t worry about fitting in everywhere.
Balance Is Key: Love hanging out but got a paper due? It’s all about setting those boundaries. Remember, FOMO is temporary, but GPA is forever (kinda).
Digital Well-being: In an era dominated by social media, explore the impact of digital connections on mental health and offer strategies for maintaining a healthy online/offline balance.
Quality Over Quantity: It’s not about how many friends you have but the quality of those relationships. Seek out people who uplift you, share your interests, and support your goals and values.
Self-Care Isn’t Selfish
Struggling is not a sign of weakness. Stress, anxiety, and feeling overwhelmed are part of the college experience for many. The key is recognizing when you need to take a step back and prioritize your well-being.
Treat Yo’ Self: Exercise, eat something green (pizza doesn’t count), and please, for the love of all-nighters, sleep! In the hustle of deadlines and exams, self-care is your lifeline. This includes setting boundaries, knowing when to say no, and making time for activities that bring you joy (AKA gaming, going out with friends, sleeping in, whatever brings you joy).
Mindfulness and Meditation: More than just buzzwords, these practices can ground you, reduce stress, and improve focus. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference.
Breathe and Reflect: Meditation, journaling, or just jamming to your favorite tunes can do wonders for your soul.
It’s ok to Ask for Help: Whether it’s academic support, counseling services, or simply talking to a friend, reaching out is a strength. Campus counseling isn’t just there for decoration. These folks are here to support you, no judgment.
Finding Your “Perfect Mix”
College is your story to write. It’s about finding your balance, discovering your passions, and learning from every success and setback.
The Myth of Perfect Balance: Lets be real, balance is not always achievable in college. There are deadlines and events out of your control, and sometimes that means staying up late to study or cancelling on your friends. Try to give yourself some grace and flexibility, and self-forgiveness if you are struggling to balance it all.
The Power of Reflection: Regularly take stock of your experiences, what you’re learning, and how you’re growing. Journaling can be a powerful tool for this reflection, helping you understand your journey and where you want to go.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all recipe for college success. What works for your roomie might not work for you, and that’s 100% okay. Keep experimenting, adjusting, and try to stay curious.
Creating a Supportive Environment
Creating a supportive environment is essential for mental well-being. This includes fostering open conversations about mental health, reducing stigma, and encouraging a culture of care and support on campus.
Advocate for Mental Health Resources: Get involved in or start initiatives on campus to promote mental health awareness and support. Advocate for policies and resources that support student mental health.
Final Thoughts
As you navigate the stress of college life, it’s good to keep your wellbeing, needs, and mental health in mind. You may not feel like you are “thriving” or “living your best life” everyday, and that’s ok! It’s a big adjustment and a stressful environment.
Try new things, fail, get back up, try again.
