Unexpected changes are happening left and right in our world, and there’s nothing we can do to stop it.

As someone who struggles with mental health, change has never been a good friend of mine. If you’re in the same boat, or are just trying to balance life irl and life online, here are some strategies that I have implemented into my every day.

You have to balance in person and online. 

First things first, you need to harmonize in person and online connections. After spending all day working from home, get dinner with a group of friends (wearing your mask and sitting six feet apart, of course). Yes, you can see your classmates on Zoom, but that’s not the same, and we all know it. 

Go outside!

I love spending alone time in my room as much as the next person (maybe that’s the introvert in me, idk), but there’s a time in all of our lives when we need to venture out into the sun. Sometimes, my anxiety takes over, and all I want to do is lay in my bed with the covers over my head, but only a few minutes outside simply breathing in the fresh air calms me down. Here’s a great idea… work outside! It’s the best of both worlds if you ask me. 

Switch it up.

I enjoy working from my desk every day because of the familiarity of it; however, when you start a new project or get stuck in the middle of one, maybe move to a coffee shop, somewhere on campus, or someplace outside. It’s easy to get into a routine, and my mental health requires it most of the time, but it’s healthy to switch is up every once in a while. 

Get out of bed!

That’s it. Get up. DON’T WORK FROM YOUR BED. 

Work out.

I know right now you’re thinking sarcastically to yourself, “Wow, I didn’t see that one coming,” but it’s so true! I honestly just got into working out mainly because of the anxiety from online everything. Staring at your computer all day takes a lot of energy out of you mentally. So, let’s go back to my first point and balance that out! Get that energy out physically and release those endorphins baby. 

Meditation helps.

This is one of my favorite things to do to get my mind off of the pandemic-filled world. Sitting by yourself and letting your mind wander allows you to address and let go of the thoughts that have been taking up space in your brain. This is one of the best ways, in my opinion, to calm your mind and feel more relaxed, especially if you’re feeling anxious.  

Talk it out.

Finally, and arguably most importantly: talk about your feelings. Therapy has always been a good resource for me, and I’m not one to talk about my emotions or even address them… ever. Opening up to a close friend, family member, or therapist really helps release those tightly-held feelings. I bottle up my emotions until they eventually explode. Seeking help makes me feel immensely better each time, even if there’s no advice from the person I’m talking to. Let it go. 

Auburn has some awesome counseling services to take advantage of. There are so many people who want to help and talk to you. If you are struggling with your mental health and need professional help call, 334-844-5123 or visit Auburn Student Counseling & Psychological Services’ website.

Never be afraid to put your mental health first, and as always…

Be well, Auburn.

Photography: Nikki M.