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Writer's pictureKimberly Jackson FNP, PMHNP

The importance of students mental health

Updated: Nov 6, 2023

Taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is crucial, especially when you're a student dealing with the pressures and stressors of academics and life. College is new territory for everyone, and taking care of yourself can be moved to the bottom of your to-do list.


A study from the American College Health Association found that 48% of college students reported moderate or severe psychological stress, 53% reported being lonely, and 26% had considered suicide.


1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Dial 988 (Formerly known as The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK)


Here are some self-care tips tailored for students:

Manage Your Time:

  • Create a Schedule: Plan your day to include study time, relaxation, and sleep.

  • Prioritize Tasks: Focus on high-priority tasks first to reduce stress.

Take Care of Your Body:

  • Healthy Diet: Eat nutritious meals to fuel your body and mind.

  • Exercise: Even short bursts of exercise can boost your energy and mood.

  • Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep to enhance concentration and memory.

Manage Stress:

  • Practice Relaxation Techniques: Try deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind.

  • Limit Caffeine: Too much caffeine can increase anxiety; consider limiting your intake.

  • Professional Help: Don’t be afraid to reach out for help managing stress when needed.

Stay Connected:

  • Socialize: Spend time with friends and family to relax and have fun.

  • Seek Support: Talk to someone you trust about your feelings and concerns.

Develop Healthy Study Habits:

  • Breaks: Take regular breaks during study sessions to prevent burnout.

  • Organize: Use planners or apps to keep track of assignments and deadlines.

  • Review Regularly: Don’t cram. Regular review of materials is more effective for learning.

Practice Mindfulness:

  • Be Present: Practice being in the moment, especially during stressful situations.

  • Gratitude: Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of positive aspects of your life.

Engage in Hobbies:

  • Pursue Interests: Make time for activities you enjoy, whether it's reading, painting, or sports.

  • Creativity: Engage in creative pursuits; they can be therapeutic.

Set Realistic Goals:

  • Break Tasks Down: Don’t overstress yourself out, divide large tasks into smaller, more manageable goals.

  • Celebrate Achievements: Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small they seem.

Seek Help When Needed:

  • Counseling Services: Don’t hesitate to reach out to counseling services.

  • Professional Help: If you're feeling persistently overwhelmed or down, consider talking to a mental health professional.


Remember, self-care is not selfish; it's a vital aspect of maintaining your overall health and well-being. Finding a balance that works for you might take time, so be patient with yourself and make adjustments as needed. Your college years are not just about academic achievements but also about personal growth and well-being.


Please reach out because we can help you orangefamilyhealth@gmail.com


If you need immediate help

DIAL 911

Suicide Prevention Hotline Talk: 1-800-273-8255

Suicide line: 1-800-784-2433



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