Being a college student is no joke. It will open doors for you once you graduate, but it can also be very taxing on the mind. So just imagine how difficult life is for an online college student. Distance learning is a lot tougher than conventional college, but with the following mental health tips, you can be prepared before you start your distance learning journey.
Set up realistic goals
Although you want to push yourself to be better, you have to remember to keep your goals as realistic as possible. Setting the bar too high may lead to frustration, stress, and loss of interest. On the other hand, setting a very low goal could hinder any progress. Learn to keep your goals realistic, but challenging at the same time.
Get out of the house
Unless you are an extreme introvert, you need to get out of the house from time to time. Being confined to the same space for days on end can have negative effects on your mental health. Leave the house, get some fresh air, or better yet, exercise outdoors. This will be good for your mind and your body as well.
Don’t forget your hobbies and friends
Always make time for fun. Set aside some time for your hobbies and spend time with your friends. Doing these can help refresh your mind, and make it ready to give 100% on your next class. Scientifically speaking, having fun doing your hobby or any activity with your friends can lower your cortisol levels.
Rest
Always get sufficient sleep to recharge your batteries. Overworking is not only bad for your mental health, but it can also affect your physical health if not rectified. Avoid procrastination and always follow the schedule you set for yourself. By doing this, you eliminate the need to cram and work overtime late in the night.
