Feel like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster in college? Join the club! College life can throw curveballs at you faster than you can say “finals week.” But fear not, Saints, here are five ways to turn that frown upside down and boost your mood ASAP.

 

#1 Sweat It Out With Some Sweet Tunes

Sometimes, all you need is Spotify and a pair of sneakers. Hit the gym or go for a run around campus while blasting your favorite tunes. Studies show that exercise releases endorphins, those magical little chemicals in your brain that make you feel like you’re walking on sunshine. Plus, jamming out to your favorite songs can elevate your mood even more. So, cue up that Grammy-winning banger, and let the music move you!

 

#2 Catch Some Z’s Like a Boss

While “college” is often synonymous with late-night study sessions and Netflix binges, sleep is the unsung hero of mood improvement. Pulling all-nighters might seem like a badge of honor, but it’s actually wreaking havoc on your health. Lack of sleep messes with your mood, concentration, and overall well-being. So, shut down the laptop, turn off the lights, put your phone on Do Not Disturb, and hit the hay for a solid 7-9 hours of shut-eye. Your brain and body will thank you.

 

#3 Nom Nom Nom: Eat Healthy, Be Healthy

You are what you eat, and chowing down on junk food is a one-way ticket to Cranky Town. Fuel your body and mind with nutritious foods like fruits, veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. Research shows that a healthy diet can boost your mood and overall mental health. Also, cooking up a storm in the kitchen can be a therapeutic activity in itself. So, ditch the ramen noodles for a hot minute and whip up a colorful salad or a hearty stir-fry. Your taste buds and your mood will smile.

 

#4 Find Your Zen Zone

College life can be stressful, no doubt about it. To prevent stress from becoming chronic, it may help to incorporate some relaxation techniques into your daily routine. Whether it’s meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, simply taking a leisurely stroll around campus, or visiting one of our Zen Gardens at the Kirkpatrick Center (IPS), find what works for you and make it a habit. Relaxation techniques can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Take a deep breath, exhale the drama, and find your inner calm.

 

#5 ROTFL!

It’s been said that laughter is the best medicine. Surround yourself with people who crack you up, and seek out opportunities to unleash your inner comedian. Watch a funny movie, attend a comedy show, or scroll through some hilarious memes on social media (be careful, tho, to avoid doom scrolling). Laughing not only lifts your spirits, but it can also reduce stress hormones and boost your immune system.

Remember, college is a wild ride filled with ups and downs, but with these five easy-peasy mood boosters in your tool kit, you’ll be handling the waves like a pro. So, crank up the tunes, get some beauty sleep, nourish your body, find your Zen, and feel free to LOL. You’ve got this, fam! 🎓🫶🏼✌🏾

Oh, one last thing! April is National Stress Awareness Month, and we know stress is a very real issue for college students. It’s critical to recognize what stress and anxiety look like, take steps to build resilience, and know where to go for help. Wonder if you’re stressed out? Try this quick online stress screener from Mental Health America. Also, check out these strategies for stress management from the CDC.

If low mood persists or affects other parts of your life (like eating, sleeping, studying, etc.), contact the SF Counseling Center or use the TimelyCare app anytime to find help.