Part of a series with Rowan University’s Wellness Center, this collaboration aims to educate students about personal well-being options. For further updates, follow @rowanuwellness on social.
Written by Wellness Center intern Gia Torsiello, psychology major
When life gets overwhelming, stress can quickly build up, leading to anxiety, burnout, and even depression. As you read this blog, take a moment to reflect: What do you do for self-care?
As college students, we often get caught up in the hustle—between work, school, clubs, and internships—and it’s easy to forget about the most important person: you. When we don’t prioritize ourselves, it can take a serious toll on our well-being. Contrary to the idea of toxic productivity, self-care isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
Self-care looks different for everyone, as long as you’re taking steps to nurture your mental, emotional, and physical health. It could be something as simple as practicing mindfulness, journaling, taking a nap, or just stepping away to recharge. Giving yourself permission to rest and engage in activities that bring you joy can help clear your mind and reduce stress.
Campus recreation is another way that college students can de-stress, center themselves and commit to self-care.
Personally, one of my favorite ways to unwind is making earrings for myself and my friends. I love gift-giving and there’s something so fulfilling about creating a gift from the heart—it helps me reset and ease my stress.
What I do for self-care often depends on my mood. One of my favorite rituals is having an at-home spa day with my girlfriend. We’ll put on face masks, watch a TV show, and play some Roblox together. Afterward, I take a warm shower, and we’ll paint our nails. It’s a little act of self-love that feels really grounding. Another practice I try to maintain is calling my mom every day. Since I’m far from home, it’s comforting to catch up on our days, since I live so far from campus which prevents me from visiting as often as I’d like.
Remember, taking time for yourself is never selfish. You’re not a burden for putting your needs first. You are loved, and simply being alive each day is an accomplishment in itself.
References:
https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/2022/08/seven-self-care-tips-for-college-students
https://www.bu.edu/articles/2023/8-simple-self-care-tips-for-college-students/