Tips for College Students During the Covid-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 has wreaked havoc on all our lives. Many colleges have already transitioned online, those that have yet to do so, will likely do so in the coming week. With so much rapidly changing, it can feel overwhelming. Despite this, it’s important that you not only stay on top of your course work, but that you also take care of yourself. Here are some tips for navigating the coming days and trying to mitigate the upheaval you may be experiencing.

Listen to the Recommendations of the CDC

As of writing, the CDC is recommending social distancing as the best way to avoid exposure to the virus. This is why many colleges and universities (as well as k-12 schools) are taking class online. You’ll also want to avoid restaurants and bars. As tempting as it is to get out and blow off some steam, now is not the time to do it.

Create a Dedicated Workspace

Whether you’ve moved home to your family’s house or you’re living on campus for the time being, it’s important to have a space that is dedicated to doing work. Not only will this ensure that you have privacy while getting things done and help you to enforce boundaries with siblings, but it will also help reinforce the habit of getting things done. If you have a laptop or portable device you’re working on, you may find it beneficial to create a space that is dedicated to studying and then reserve social media and visiting with friends on Skype to another space.

Maintain a Schedule and a Routine

It’s really tempting, when we’re home all the time to just throw your schedule out the window. Don’t do this. Not only will days start to blend together, you’ll lose any momentum and risk falling into depression. Even if you’re going to be home all day, divide up your day. When will you eat? When will you check your email? When will you study? When will you complete any assignments for your courses?

Socialize with Distance

No, we’re not talking about hopping on Facebook or Twitter. Instead, make plans with friends and family members to meet up online – with a Skype video chat or Zoom or Facetime – or yes, even Facebook’s video calling feature. Chatting via text message and instant messaging is not the same as being able to talk on the phone or have a video call. None of it replaces face-to-face interaction, but it’s better than being completely isolated. Come up with novel ways to watch a movie with a friend or even see if you can come up with a way to play a board game online.

Maintain Your Well-Being and Health

Remaining in the kind of isolation necessary right now can have a toll on your mental and physical health. Make sure to eat as healthfully as possible – now may be a good time to learn how to cook basic meals if you don’t already have that skill and you have the resources available for doing so. Try not to stress-eat and be sure you’re not skipping meals due to stress. Be as active as you are able to be. There are a lot of great workout videos online, and on a nice day, being mindful of social distancing taking a walk or a run might be in order. Many health offices are moving online for consultations, keeping people out of doctors’ offices unless they truly need to go in.

If you are experiencing anxiety or feelings of depression that are interfering with your ability to carry out your daily tasks, it’s important that you seek out help. If you’re not comfortable talking with your family members about mental healthcare, most colleges and universities have a directory of where one can go for help. Telehealth may also be an option for you. Do not ignore the feelings and know that right now, you are not alone. Many people are experiencing higher levels of anxiety, stress, and depression due to the circumstances surrounding COVID-19.

Do the Best You Can

With the pandemic being a fluid situation, it’s important to be adaptable. We’re all doing the best we can right now to maintain a semblance of our regularly scheduled lives. One of the best things you can do is maintain open communication with your advisors, your professors, and your peers. If you’re struggling, don’t be afraid to be honest about it. If you didn’t get to an assignment or know you might not get to an assignment due to patchy Internet service, let your professor know as soon as you know.

Finally, give yourself some grace. Everyone’s life has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, especially those in academic settings. It’s going to take adjusting and it will involve a transition period.