Sunday, November 15, 2020 10 self-care tips from CAPS
Self-care on the surface sounds simple to do, but at this time of year it can be the first thing that gets overlooked. Busy schedules combined with an increased focus on academic commitments, extracurricular activities, and other responsibilities can make it difficult to prioritize mental health needs. However, this is when self-care is most critical for mental health.
According to Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), students should ensure they are taking time to focus on their needs, prioritize their physical and mental health, and find activities to increase relaxation and enjoyment while wrapping up the semester.
Here are some self-care tips to consider:
- Make sleep a priority.
To learn more about the value of sleep, plan to attend this upcoming session from the University Health Center. - Keep a structured routine.
Building a schedule and sticking to it can prevent becoming overwhelmed. Try this weekly study schedule template from the Center for Academic Success and Transition. - Maintain physical activity and exercise.
Campus Recreation is here to help you stay active. Whether stopping by to get your steps in or participate in a game of pick-up basketball, you can give your mind a break and focus on your well-being. - Stay connected to friends and family.
Go ahead and pick up the phone. Reaching out to loved ones can reduce stress and improve your mood. - Don’t forget to eat.
Keeping your body nourished helps you feel more prepared to learn. If you’re looking for a healthy snack, check out these 9 brain foods for studying. - Listen to music, read a book or engage in other hobbies.
Claiming time for yourself can help you recharge. - Prioritize your mental health needs by saying no to additional obligations that you don’t have time for.
It’s ok not to volunteer for everything. Knowing your limitations will keep your stress levels in check and help others plan accordingly. - Try increasing positive self-talk.
Be your own biggest supporter! You can improve your quality of life by reframing your view, removing negative bias and choosing an optimistic mindset. - Set aside time for breaks.
Giving yourself time to recharge when studying will help you stay focused and prevent fatigue. During a break, take time to enjoy your environment by going for a short walk around campus or completing another task that requires you to move around a bit. - Plan ahead for what you’ll need in the upcoming weeks to prioritize self-care.
Be sure you’ve done what’s needed regarding the business of being a student. Review these 6 tasks to help you get ahead.
As always, remember that CAPS is here to help you. CAPS can be reached at 402-472-7450. For information about services, visit caps.unl.edu and follow Instagram at @unlcaps.