How To: Manage Your Mental Health
As we enter the midterm of the semester, remember that managing your mental health is important.
Mayo Clinic stated that 1 in 3 college students suffer from mental health issues and that it impacts students' academics negatively. These impacts include loss of interest in activities, such as clubs and sports, lack of energy, a sense of being overwhelmed, and difficulty getting schoolwork done.
However, even though it might feel impossible to handle your stress, there are different ways to help manage it. Some ways include journaling, running, self-care, and seeking professional help.
Anyah Farmer, a sophomore at USCA, stated that she likes to listen to music because it allows her to escape from distractions, so she can get her work done.
“I would tell other students to find something they love to do,” said Farmer. “Once you find that stress reliever, be continuous with it. Because you’ll find yourself feeling better inside and out.”
Research done by Mayo Clinic showed that exercising helps with mental health. When you exercise, it releases endorphins, which are chemicals that enhance your well-being. It also helps the person gain confidence, which shows in their schoolwork.
For professional help, the USCA Counseling Center is free for students. Many students take advantage of this resource and state that it helps them come up with strategies to manage their stress. To make an appointment, call 803-641-3609. The office is in the Student and Educational Support Building, Suite 107, and is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
