* Questions for Dear Ernie can be sent to: thecandor@yahoo.com
Dear Ernie,
I have been feeling very overwhelmed and not like myself lately, and my mental health is really taking a toll on me and affecting my schoolwork. I struggle to get up in the morning at times and feel a lack of motivation to attend my classes. With the semester coming to a close, I really can’t afford to miss more school. I want to bounce back and start feeling like myself again! How can I boost my confidence and improve my mood?
Sincerely,
The Sulking Student
Dear Sulking Student,
Making time for yourself and the things that you enjoy is crucial! If you overwhelm yourself with too many things that seem like chores to get done, you will burn out very quickly.
Some things that personally make me feel more refreshed and happier for the week are stopping at a coffee shop to get my favorite drink, and then making my way to the grocery store to do my weekly shopping and picking some good options for my meals. If you are feeling up to it, one day a week invite a friend over for game night! It will take your mind off of all the stressful things going on around you.
When it comes to boosting your confidence, you can do a face mask while working on some homework or enjoying a tv show or movie, paint your nails or go have them done at a salon, snuggle up with a book and light a candle, or sometimes taking a hot shower even helps!
Do things that you enjoy and make you feel happy! You deserve a nice reward after a week full of classes, exams, projects, and homework. Make sure to not be too hard on yourself, and don’t beat yourself up about the little things. We are all human.
Also, don’t be afraid to talk to someone about how you are feeling. It is important to address how you feel as opposed to ignoring it. Don’t forget, Benedictine has a counseling center located at Krasa room 116.
Keep on Soaring,
Ernie
(Note: The advice given is from Candor writers, student-to-student, and does not reflect the opinion of the university).
The Candor 