It can be difficult to stay healthy in college. Students stay up late hanging out with friends or studying, and it can be difficult to stay mentally stable when combining late nights studying with getting up early in the morning for class. Keeping those hours can throw you off physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Here are a few tips on how to keep your mind and body happy during college:
Mentally: It’s no secret that college is difficult. Finals are approaching quickly, and there will be late nights spent writing papers and studying for exams. The best way to combat those late nights is to start studying early. Ask your professors now what will be on the finals, and spend time each night reviewing the material. If you have papers to write, start gathering your articles and books early so that you have them when you need them.
If you are struggling with a class, see your professor for help as soon as you begin to struggle. Use your college’s resources: the library, the writing center, tutors, and study groups.
Physically: Typically, each college has a cafeteria that offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert buffets. It’s easy to order a pizza to your dorm or to run out for fast food late at night. There’s a saying: the freshman fifteen refers to the amount of weight students typically gain in their first year at college. Instead of indulging in pizza, tacos, or hamburgers at every meal, try to keep a balanced diet. And don’t skip breakfast—it can really throw off your metabolism. Try to have vegetables and fruits with at least one meal a day, and make sure to get some healthy protein at every meal.
As far as drinks go, it’s easy to rely on caffeine when you need to stay up late. However, energy drinks and soda are packed with calories and junk. It’s okay to indulge once in a while, but it’s best to stick with water.
Emotionally: There are many different reasons why a student can struggle emotionally in college: they might miss home, they might be anxious or depressed, or they might be having problems with relationships.
Dating isn’t always easy in a college setting. If you’re struggling after a break-up, don’t feel safe in a relationship, or aren’t sure how to handle the pressures of dating, it’s important that you reach out for help. Most colleges have counselors that you can talk with. If they don’t, consider finding one on your own. If you are struggling with a relationship, it can be hard to focus on your studies and other responsibilities. A therapist will listen and will help guide you in making good choices for your health and happiness.
Do you have any tips on how to stay healthy during college? Let us know in the comments section. If you’d like to set up a time to meet up with Reka, you can contact her by phone at 402-881-8125, by email at reka@omaha-counseling.com, or via Twitter or Facebook.
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