Make self-care a priority
Midterms can be one of the most stressful times of the semester. When you’re a student coping with anxiety, it can be even more challenging. Here are a few strategies that could help combat anxiety while you’re pushing through midterms.
Eat well
Eating right is easier said than done when you’re a university student. With the rising cost of food, the limited amounts of time students have during the school year, and the exhaustion of midterm anxiety, it can be difficult not to grab a package of instant noodles and call it a night. Thankfully, according to MedicalNewsToday, there are some easy-to-eat foods that can help ease anxiety.
Eggs are inexpensive and a good source of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to mood disorders like anxiety and depression, so eating foods rich in vitamin D may help ease the symptoms of these conditions.
Dark chocolate is suspected to reduce anxiety and improve mood, so reaching for a few pieces could help you get through a test or study session more comfortably.
Contact resources
If you’re a student with anxiety, and you haven’t yet, consider getting in touch with the Centre for Accessible Learning. They often offer support to students with mental health barriers, which can make a massive difference during high-stress periods.
Consider taking advantage of alternative medicine services on campus. The university offers massage, acupuncture, health workshops, and diet guidance. All of these services can aid you in staying emotionally and physically healthy throughout the year.
Additionally, if you need someone to talk to, reach out to a counsellor or a friend. Having a shoulder to lean on is an essential part of relieving excess stress and emotional strain.
Get cozy
One of the best parts about fall is breaking out the hoodies and thick scarves. During cold weather, comfortable clothing can create a sense of well-being. When anxiety strikes, find a favourite sweater or a blanket-sized scarf and wrap yourself up in it like a security blanket. It’s the small things that make a big difference and a go-to hoodie can sometimes make or break a whole day.
Check in with yourself
The most important part of coping with anxiety is learning how to do self-care. When times are at their busiest, it can be hard to remember to check in and make sure you’re getting what you need. If things become overwhelming, ask yourself what you may not have been getting enough of and try to tick one or two of those things off your list. It’s challenging to take care of responsibilities when our bodies break down, so making self-care a priority is an essential part of getting through midterms.
Anxiety can be a difficult barrier to overcome at the best of times, but one tool we have to overcome the struggle is our ability to know ourselves and what we need. By eating the right foods, reaching out for support, and getting enough comfort and self-care, anxiety can become a little bit easier to combat during midterms.
