Feeling anxious about college admissions? You're not alone. The waiting game can be tough for high school seniors, but there are ways to cope and stay positive. Here are three strategies to help you navigate this stressful time:
1. Practice Self-Care
Make sure to meet your basic needs first. So often stress is a response from lack of sleep, hunger, or too little time outside.
Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you're getting enough sleep to keep your mind and body refreshed. Make sure to put your cell phone to bed at least an hour before you turn in! Limiting blue light before bed helps your mind relax and fall asleep easier.
Nourish Your Body: Eat healthy meals and stay hydrated. Aim to drink at least ½ your body weight in ounces of water. Fruits like oranges and blueberries are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, and lean proteins (poultry and fish) help your body restore. Try to limit caffeine and sugary drinks–they are main contributors to heightened response and won’t help you rest.
Move Your Body: Exercise can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Just a 30 minute walk outside can regulate your nervous system and align your circadian rhythm.
2. Stay Productive
Focus on Academics: Keep up with your schoolwork and maintain good grades. Focus on what you can control, and keep a calendar to help you prioritize the biggest needs of attention.
Pursue Your Passions: Dedicate time to hobbies and interests that bring you joy. Give yourself some time at night to unwind with music you love to listen to, drawing, painting, or sports you love to play.
Volunteer: Give back to your community and make a difference. A recent study in Journal of Happiness Studies found that people who volunteer are not only happier, but that it also improves mental health over time. The sense of community, relationships, and skills acquired in volunteer positions benefit everyone involved.
3. Connect with Others
Talk to Friends and Family: Share your feelings with loved ones who can offer support and encouragement. All your teachers and counselors have been in your position before, and they can offer great reflection and support.
Join a Support Group: Connect with other students going through the same experience. Talking and listening to one another can help you feel more at ease and remember you are not alone.
Remember, the college admissions process is just one step in your journey, both towards college and beyond. Keep a long-term perspective as you and your classmates begin to hear back decisions, and remember that much of the admissions process is nuanced and can be unpredictable. Stay patient, avoid comparing yourself to others, and trust the process.
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