How to Take Care of Your Mental Health if You’re Still Remote Learning

Maybe your school decided to go remotely during the winter holidays, or you have chosen virtual education for health reasons. Distance learning solves some problems and creates others, such as loneliness and related mental health issues.

However, you can take active steps to stay happy and balanced no matter where you take classes. Here’s how to take care of your mental health if you’re still studying remotely.

1. Organize

What happens when you need something but can’t find it? You panic, especially if time is of the essence. This reaction causes a surge in hormones which raises blood pressure. Of course, you are recovering, but constant bouts of such stress take a toll on your mental health.

The solution is to get yourself in order. If you like, spend a full weekend organizing your notes and browser bookmarks so you can find the right interactive tool or study material in seconds.

2. Plan your time

Another panic instigator realizes that a 10-page article that you haven’t even started yet is due tomorrow. In addition, it is 30% of your final grade. Yes.

Stay in the know by choosing an app or print scheduler and sticking to it. At the beginning of the semester, write down any critical deadlines and schedule for essay writing and exam preparation. Every Sunday night, sit down on your weekly schedule and review your to-do list each day, adjusting time estimates for tasks as needed. The peace of mind you will experience knowing you are on top of everything will benefit your mental health.

3. Leave room to breathe

People are not machines. You were not born to work from morning to night without a break. You exist as a glorious miracle of creation, endowed with the ability to enjoy all the richness that life has to offer. Give yourself time to breathe and enjoy the things you love.

When performing daily tasks, try the Pomodoro method. You work 25 minutes then take a five-minute break. After three periods, give yourself a longer break for half an hour or so.

You also need carrots to justify your daily routine and not fall into despair. Plan a treat closer to home if your student budget doesn’t leave room for a vacation at the end of the semester. You’re never too old for a sleepover with your BFFs – and pajama jam is an excuse to aim for.

4. Take care of your physical health

If you neglect your physical health, your mental health also suffers. Your mind and body are inextricably linked. For example, deficiency of certain nutrients can lead to psychological disorders. Some patients recover quickly from depression if they receive supplemental magnesium if they do not get enough magnesium from their diet. You can find this nutrient in nuts and seeds.

Eat a diet rich in whole plant foods close to their natural forms. Are you on the dining plan? Treat your plate like clockwork by filling it halfway with fresh fruits and vegetables. They contain a variety of antioxidants and other nutrients your brain needs to optimize your neurological health.

Likewise, prioritize exercise, especially if you work while studying. It may seem like a burden to cram one more thing in, but you need a burst of energy from regular exercise to handle the overwhelming load. You should be getting 30 to 45 minutes a day, but don’t let that overwhelm you. Something is always better than nothing, and many of today’s fitness apps have workouts that can be completed in as little as 5-10 minutes.

5. Participate in social activities

You may be a remote student, but that doesn’t mean you can’t leave your home. Even people with health concerns can participate in safer outdoor activities where everyone follows social distancing rules and wears a mask.

If you have clubs on campus that interests you, why not sign up? You can also meet new people through volunteering. Good deeds benefit your mental health by freeing the flow of positive neurotransmitters.

If you need to quarantine, connect using technology. Why not schedule a once-a-week Facetime with your out-of-state best friend? The interaction will benefit both of you.

6. Leverage Your Campus Mental Health Resources

Most universities have mental health centers on campus. Consider visiting if you haven’t set foot in yours since orientation, especially if you feel like you’re struggling with depression or anxiety.

Healthcare does not become more accessible after graduation. Take advantage of this opportunity for free or low-cost psychological help.

7. Get enough sleep

Sleep is critical to your mental health. Many students sit up all night from time to time, but try to keep them to a minimum – remember that hint about scheduling?

Consider tools such as a tent or an eye mask to block out extra light when burning the midnight oil if you have a roommate. Noise-canceling headphones can save lives. Relax in dreamland with quiet guided meditation even if your roommate decides that death metal will help him focus.

Mental Health Tips During Distance Learning

Distance learning has many benefits, but it can be isolating. Loneliness can take a toll on your mental well-being.

However, you are not a prisoner chained to a laptop. You have the opportunity to take control of your educational experience and make it a positive one. Follow the seven tips above to keep mental health with distance learning.