Lets talk about healthy coping strategies:

• Be a friend! Help your friend who is struggling with their mental health by encouraging them to reach out to a school counselor or parent.
• Did you know that a lot of colleges and universities have free counseling?
• Is your guardian covered by their companies Employee Assistance Program (EAP)? If so, check out the benefits it may include.
• It’s important to note that private counseling or counseling at a college or university is a confidential service for those 18 years of age or older.

People do cope in unhealthy ways with alcohol, weed and or vaping. These strategies will not help your mind, body or spirit in the long run.

Check out the Empathia Podcast.

Healthy coping skills for students:

1. Breathing- Before a class presentation YouTube a breathing exercise to calm your nerves!
2. Exercise- Check out the campus gym!
3. Journaling- Keep it safe and secure.
4. Self-talk with rational messages.
5. Connect with a friend.

Check out the Empathia Podcast.

Wellness

• Follow a grocery list! Incorporate frozen fruits and vegetables, they’re less expensive and still nutritious. Opt for whole grains like oats, quinoa, and brown rice, which are affordable and provide sustained energy.
• Create a meal plan! Meal prepping saves money and also reduces decision fatigue. Having a meal plan promotes better mental wellbeing.
• Consider the impact of nutrition on your mental health, you can enhance your overall wellbeing, academic performance, and ability to manage stress effectively with the right nutrition.
• Investing in your health is an investment in your future success!

Wellness

Physical activity can help reduce stress for students.

• What type of physical activity do you like to do? Build it into your school day. Remember energy creates energy!
• Track your physical activity habits with a smart phone application such as the Habit Tracker.
• Exercise with others that helps create accountability.
• Physical activity/exercise helps create a space to connect with others and talk about mental health.
• It’s important to remember that movement and mental health go hand and hand.

Check out the Empathia Podcast

Mental Health in the Classroom

• Keep in mind, you’re not alone!
• Remember student’s like you have a life outside the classroom.
• Check in with your classmates especially during those stressful times of year.
• Show grace and compassion to yourself and your classmates.
• Reach out to your professor they can help refer you to resources on campus such as for mental health.

Check out the Enlighten U Podcast