Whether it’s your first year at university or you’re a returning student, chances are you’re feeling all sorts of emotions right now: excitement, the thrill of starting a new chapter in your life, nerves, anxiety. It’s totally common to feel all those emotions and more, because let’s face it, university life is overwhelming.
If you’re among the percentage of students who feel an overwhelming sense of anxiety when thinking about the upcoming year, don’t worry, you’re not alone. However, there are steps you can take to make this transition easier on you.
University’s Mental Health Services
First, acknowledge your feelings and allow yourself to feel whatever it is you’re feeling. If you’re anxious about heading back to school, there’s no shame in admitting that. It might be a good idea to make use of university’s free mental health services where you will be able to speak with a professional who can help you make sense of your feelings and of the situation.
University’s counselling services operate between Monday to Friday, between 08:00-20:00, ensuring that even students with a packed schedule are able to find a slot that works for them. The staff is made up of a diverse team, with every person specialising in a different area. So, whether you need guidance on what your next steps after university should be, need help dealing with anxiety, or more complex feelings and emotions, there is a qualified member of staff who can help you.
Remember, going to therapy isn’t something you should be ashamed of, it’s why the service is there in the first place, to help students get accustomed to university life and tackle issues that might pop up.
Prioritise Self-care
If you don’t feel like you’re ready for therapy, there are other ways to manage back-to-school nerves. There’s still a few weeks left of summer, so make sure to dedicate some time for yourself. Prioritise your mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing by doing things you enjoy. Life is already hectic, so taking a few hours or days to unwind and recharge can help you get back on track.
Talk It Out
You can even talk to your classmates and see how they’re feeling. Since you’re embarking on this journey together, chances are you’ll have similar worries. Besides, who can understand your concerns better than students in your own course?
This semester, let’s all remember to be kinder to each other and offer a helping hand to those who might be struggling. If you need additional help, reach out to university’s free mental health services on counselling@um.edu.mt