5 ways to focus on your mental health this semester

For many college students, moving away from home, handling a bigger academic workload, and budgeting finances are all stressful.

In fact, 45% of American college students claim they undergo "more than average stress."

If you fall into this category, you'll need to focus on your mental health this semester so you can make the most out of your college experience.

Incorporate exercise, healthy eating, and plenty of rest into your routine and you'll reap the benefits. Making these habits part of your day will help boost your mood and energy. They also alleviate anxiety and depression.

• Strive for 30 minutes of exercise a day.

• Eat a well-balanced, healthy meal each day.

• Get at least 7 hours of sleep a night.

Try adding some of these stress-relieving foods and beverages to your diet:

• Sweet potatoes

• Eggs

• Shellfish or any fatty fish

• Blueberries

• Veggies such as broccoli and artichokes

• Chamomile tea

• Garlic

• Parsley

Incorporating meditation and other activities into your day can have a huge benefit on your mental health by:

• Reducing stress, anxiety, and depression

• Increasing focus and memory

• Creating a positive mental state

Start by meditating in a calm place and focus on your breathing for 5-10 minutes every day. If this is too hard, start with 1 minute.

Do not dwell on the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment. -Buddha

Do you have people in your life that you can turn to for encouragement or help? If not, join a club or study group and start building a support network for yourself.

A support network can do more than help with academic success: it can give you the motivation that you need to not give up.

Other places you can build a support network are:

• Volunteer organizations

• Campus gym

• Cultural center

• Student government

  

One in five college students will experience a mental health disorder during college. Counseling can help you effectively manage depression, panic or anxiety disorders.

Are you feeling depressed or anxious? Schedule an appointment with a campus counselor with your college's counseling center. This is a confidential space that allows you to vent and get mental health advice and stress management techniques from a professional.

Prioritize your mental health!