Sustaining Good Mental Health for Online Students
By Paul Rothbart
Getting an education often comes with a fair amount of stress and anxiety. Attending school online, while convenient and safe, can take an extra toll on mental health. By removing the face-to-face interactions with instructors and fellow students and losing the social component, online pupils seemingly have no release valve for the pressure they feel. It can be difficult to stay motivated to keep to deadlines when faced with the distractions of being at home and not in front of an instructor. This, too, can be quite a source of stress. Fear not, there are ways to combat the anxiety and keep mentally healthy.
Take Good Care of Your Physical Self
The mind and body are intricately connected. To keep up your mental health, don't neglect yourself physically. Eat well. Find the time to exercise. Even a brief walk every day will keep the blood flowing and the muscles toned. A healthy body has higher levels of energy and responds much better to the workload carried by the online student.
Engage in Hobbies
Hobbies are fun, they keep us active and there are no deadlines or expectations. They can be enjoyed whenever there is some free time. Find activities you like and spend some time each week just having a good time with your favorite hobby. Try to avoid hobbies that place you on the computer, such as video games. It's important to spend some time away from screens.
Socialize
Interacting with others not only makes us happy, it also boosts memory and cognitive thinking. The ideal is face to face, but connecting through electronic devices can be quite effective. Online time is not restricted to classes. Communicating with classmates through chat programs makes learning more enjoyable and effective. Hearing the perspectives of fellow students aids in understanding and helps with motivation. Talking about topics other than classwork offers a break and helps to recharge mentally.
Get Help
Do not be afraid to contact your instructors or counselors for help. That's why they are there. It can also be helpful to talk to a therapist or seek help from any of the many online resources available. You don't have to go it alone. Everybody needs a hand now and then.
Adopt an Animal Friend
Pets are wonderful companions that offer company and unlimited love. Caring for one helps take the mind off of the pressure of classes. They are even fun to talk to and do answer in their own way.
Attending classes online can be challenging and stressful. By finding ways to stay active physically, have fun and reach out to others, the anxiety can be managed. Good mental health is vital and achievable. Oh, and don't forget to breathe.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Monroe, La.