10 Mental Health Activities for College Students
Starting college is an exciting and transformative time; it’s crucial to prioritize your mental health to make the most of this opportunity.
As we enter National Suicide Prevention Month, it’s a timely reminder of the importance of mental health, especially for college students who often juggle academic, social, and personal pressures. To help you stay healthy, happy, and productive throughout your college journey, we’ve compiled a list of 10 mental health activities.
1. Practice Mindfulness
Suppressing emotions is a common coping mechanism that many of us use, but expressing them through journaling can have several benefits. Journaling provides a private, accessible outlet for releasing emotions and reflecting on your experiences. It can help you process difficult feelings, organize your thoughts, and reduce mental stress, especially during challenging times.
Related: Read Choosing Therapy’s article, “Journaling for Mental Health: Benefits, Tips, & Prompts to Get Started”
2. Express yourself through creative outlets.
Art and music have long been recognized as creative outlets that positively impact mental health. Engaging in creative activities like drawing or listening to music can help relieve stress and provide an emotional release. These outlets allow you to explore your feelings and gain deeper self-awareness, making them an excellent tool for mental health and self-reflection.
3. Seek on-campus support.
Many universities understand that college life can be challenging, and that’s the reason why they offer students a range of free resources to help them navigate through this period. Seeking guidance from a mental health professional with the necessary knowledge and experience can provide practical advice and tips to help improve your mental well-being. Explore the resources available at your university and take advantage of them.
Related: Mental Health and Wellness Resources Available to St. John’s Students
4. Socialize and build connections.
Spending time with friends and meeting new people can provide emotional support and help ease feelings of isolation. Being around others who uplift and motivate you can have a significant positive impact on your mental well-being. Socializing can help you relax, share experiences, and build a support network that helps you navigate the ups and downs of college life.
5. Set and achieve goals.
Setting goals provides a sense of purpose and structure, helping you stay focused and motivated. Achieving even small goals can boost your confidence and sense of accomplishment. When life feels overwhelming, focusing on a goal—no matter how simple—can give you a positive direction and help you regain control.
6. Lace up those sneakers and get moving.
Staying active and releasing excess energy can significantly benefit your mental health in college. Most universities have numerous resources, including on-campus fitness centers, to help you stay active. You can take advantage of workout classes or use the accessible facilities that fit any busy schedule. Exercise enables you to clear your mind and promotes healthy emotional release.
Related: Get to know St. John’s Campus Recreation.
Tip: Finding time for exercise can be challenging in a busy college schedule. To avoid overbooking myself, I prioritize my exercise routine. It's not necessary to work out every day, but I go to the gym on days when I have fewer classes or when I'm not working. I only push myself as much as my body can handle to stay motivated. It's important always to give yourself a break. For example, I go for quick workouts or attend exercise classes provided by the university to remain active without overdoing it.
7. Spend time in nature.
Every so often, taking a break from electronic devices and spending time outdoors is essential. College demands a lot of screen time, which can be stressful and stressful. However, nature has a calming effect, which provides relaxation. Additionally, even engaging in activities such as hiking or walking can be enjoyable to spend time outside.
8. Get involved on campus.
Participating in campus events at your university can bring a sense of belonging and purpose to your college experience. Universities organize events to bring students from diverse backgrounds and interests together.
Additionally, attending club meetings or university group events can help you meet new people and discover new opportunities.
Related: Read the blog post, “Seven Ways to Elevate Your College Experience.”
9. Learn relaxation techniques.
Relaxation techniques like yoga, deep breathing, and meditation help you feel calm and relaxed. Yoga can promote physical balance and flexibility and improve your overall mental well-being. Deep breathing involves taking slow, deep breaths to calm your nervous system. Finally, meditation lets you focus on the present moment and promotes calmness and relaxation. These are just a few relaxation techniques that can enhance your mental health.
10. Connect with family and friends.
When you’re away at college, you might not see your loved ones as often as you’d like. However, occasionally reaching out to them through a text or phone call can help you feel more connected. Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you can significantly improve your mental health during college.
Related: Read the blog post, “Handling Homesickness at College: Tips and Strategies.”
Wellness and Support Services Available to St. John’s Students
At St. John’s University, your well-being is a top priority, and there are numerous resources dedicated to supporting your mental health. The Office of Wellness Education and Prevention Services provides essential tools to help you manage the challenges of college life. From wellness coaching to workshops and eCheckups, these services are designed to empower you to find balance and prioritize your mental health.
Additionally, the Center for Counseling and Consultation (CCC) offers confidential, personalized support to guide you through any difficulties you may face. Whether you prefer in-person sessions or virtual care, the CCC is there to listen and provide expert assistance tailored to your needs. Every conversation is private, ensuring you have a safe space to talk without fear of judgment.
If you or someone you care about is facing a difficult time, don’t hesitate to seek help. St. John’s University is here for you, and beyond campus, national resources like the 988 Lifeline provide 24/7 support, ensuring that you’re never alone.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, throughout your college journey, it is common to experience a few ups and downs. However, it is essential to maintain your mental well-being throughout college to ensure a smooth ride. Engaging in exercise, utilizing on-campus resources, and practicing relaxation techniques are just a few ways to boost your mental health.
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