We’ve all heard the old cliches about all-nighters and cramming for exams. But the truth is: all the studying in the world won’t do you any good if you’re not taking care of yourself — physically and mentally.
One of the most common struggles we hear from first-year college students is that they don’t always know how to manage their time in healthy ways.
Once you start college, your time will be a lot less structured than it was in high school. You won’t be doing most of your work in the classroom. For every course on your schedule, you should factor in at least 3 hours each week for independent study. That takes a lot of discipline! And can be a big adjustment for a lot of students.
The good news is that taking small steps to prioritize your well-being can go a long way toward avoiding burnout and, ultimately, set you up for long-term success.
Simple Steps
You might be thinking, “I have a lot to do. Do I really have time to sleep? Work out? Eat a real meal?” Devoting just 10 minutes to self-care can go a long way toward improving your overall well-being. If you’re not sure where to begin, here are some easy things to try:
- Quick Workout: Do some jumping jacks, push-ups, or squats. Take a short walk on campus. Or, blast your favorite song and dance it out. Better yet, bring a friend with you so you get social endorphins in the mix at the same time!
- Vitamin D: Take your homework outside (snag one of the Adirondack chairs by the fountain) and get some sunlight while you work. Studies have shown a direct link between green spaces and health benefits, including reduced risk of diabetes and heart disease over time. Something as simple as setting yourself up in a well-lit, comfortable space can really make a difference.
- Gratitude List: Grab a post-it note and jot down three things you’re grateful for today. Sometimes, reminding yourself of the positive things in your life can help lift your mood and set your day on a good course.
Health Resources for York College Students
Your York College tuition covers services for your physical and mental health, so you might as well use them!
- Timely Care App: All full-time undergraduate York College students have free access to this virtual health, counseling, and wellbeing service, which is available 24/7. Speak with a medical professional about a health concern, schedule a psychiatry appointment, or reach out anytime for emotional support through the on-demand TalkNow feature. The app also includes health coaching and self-care resources (including yoga and meditation sessions) to help maintain your overall wellness.
- Health Services: We have registered nurses, physician assistants, and doctors on staff throughout the week for minor injuries or scheduled appointments. If you need medical attention outside of on-campus provider hours, we are within walking distance of the WellSpan York Hospital emergency room. There are also several walk-in urgent care facilities nearby. But if you’re experiencing a serious medical emergency, the best thing to do is call 911 right away to get help as fast as possible.
- Counseling Services: If you feel like you might be struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, or another mental health concern, schedule a free and confidential counseling session with our on-campus staff. Help is available and you are not alone!
College can be stressful, so be gentle with yourself. Take breaks when you need them and don’t be afraid to ask for help — academically, emotionally, or otherwise.
From practicing simple daily mindfulness activities to seeking professional help when you need it, there are plenty of ways to prioritize your well-being in college. But it all starts with checking in on yourself and making sure you’re making space for what brings you energy and joy.
Remember that the faculty and staff at York College are invested in your success. We are here to guide and support you, so if you’re not sure where to start, just reach out!
