‘Tis the Season for Self-Care
As we approach the end of 2024 and wrap up the fall semester, it’s easy to become stressed and sleep-deprived preparing for final exams and getting ready for the holidays. That’s why it’s so important to exercise self-care by protecting your physical and mental health.
“Good mental health is all about balancing effort,” said Michael Soward, an intern in the Health Service Psychology Doctoral Internship Program at the University of North Dakota Counseling Center.
In an email, Soward emphasized the importance of socializing with others and seeking support and feedback in hard times. In the College of Education and Human Development, for example, the official student group, Future Educators of UND (FEUND), hosts events where students can socialize and destress.
Soward also spoke about how disregarding physical needs can produce negative side effects.
“Poor diet and sleep habits are leading causes of poor cognitive functioning and mood dysregulation,” said Soward.
He recommended aiming for at least 120 minutes of physical exertion every week. Soward said practicing mindfulness and activities such as yoga and other low-impact exercises can help students manage stress.
Soward said students can build time into their schedules for each activity by alternating between study and play. They should identify self-care goals and the steps needed to accomplish them.
“Do not overreach and do not underreach,” said Soward.
Students should avoid doing one thing when it is time to focus on another, such as doing homework while working or drinking alcohol when it is time to study.
Soward also said there is a difference between self-care and distraction.
“Be cautious with pseudo-self-care (such as) social media/doomscrolling, binge watching, over-eating/sleeping, over-exercising, or any distraction action,” he said. “Self-care focuses on personal needs and permits a person to step out of the race, for a moment, to rest and recuperate energy, focus, strength, intention, and attention. Self-care is keeping healthy boundaries between what the body needs and what the world demands.”
For motivation, Soward suggested that students identify a way to treat themselves, such as having a slice of pizza or taking a bubble bath, after completing a task.
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Note: The combination of finals and the holidays can sometimes be difficult to manage. The University Counseling Center is available to all UND students for in-person and tele-mental health services. In case of crisis, know that you’re never alone. If you or someone you know is at risk for self-harm, please immediately contact the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988. They are available 24/7.
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