Coping with College

Setting Boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments or activities that drain your energy or overwhelm you. Setting healthy boundaries is crucial for preserving your mental and emotional well-being. Seeking Support: Building a support network can provide emotional validation, guidance, and encouragement during challenging times. Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself and practice self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend facing difficulties. Mindful Technology Use: Set boundaries around technology use to prevent burnout and promote mental well-being. Limit screen time, especially before bedtime, and engage in offline activities that nourish your mind and body. Engaging in a Hobby: Make time for an activity that you enjoy, whether it is reading, painting, gardening, or playing music. Engaging in hobbies can provide relaxation, creativity, and a sense of fulfillment.

  Set small goals. There is nothing worse than feeling overwhelmed, so take it easy on yourself and set goals you know that you can meet.  Take a break. Taking 10-15 minute study breaks are great, but they do not work after a while. Take the day off and do something you have been wanting to do. You will be much more productive when you come back to your work.  Make a schedule. Be sure to eat a healthy diet, keep a good sleep schedule, and exercise frequently. Add something special to your days to prevent burnout.  Think about your end goal. It’s tough now, but picture where you will be after the semester is over! You will be one step closer to your degree!

  Questions to ask yourself when deciding on the best answer on a test...  Which one of these answers would provide my patient with an immediate fix? Some answer choices may seem correct or adequate, but think about their short-term and long-term effects.  What would happen if I waited to do this for my patient? For example, you can probably wait to give a bath or do oral hygiene care, but patient harm could be done if a medication is not given right away.  Am I following the ABCs (airway, breathing, circulation)? Remember, many things can fall under each of these categories. For example, a patient in hypovolemic shock will need IV fluids. IV fluids are a part of circulation!

Get a planner. Map out exactly what you need to do and when you need to do it. Keep it somewhere that you will see it daily.  Get a corkboard or whiteboard. Each morning, write down what needs to be done. When the day is finished, you should be able to erase the entire board and feel accomplished!  Enlist help! It’s okay to ask for help if you don’t have enough hands to do the job! Your friends or family may be able to help you study or run an errand for you.  It is okay to say no! If you don’t have time for it, try to reschedule later.