Resources

10 Quotes Reminding You to Enjoy Life

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Sometimes, we can get so caught up in the stress of our daily lives and become so distracted that we forget to slow down every now and then and enjoy our lives. College isn’t always easy and can definitely be overwhelming every now and then. That’s why it’s important to take a step back and appreciate the simpler things. Doing this will help you relax and live in the moment. After all, life should be enjoyable, not full of stress and frustration. Here are 10 quotes that we hope will remind you that life is short, so you should make sure to enjoy every minute of it:

  1. “When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive – to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.” – Marcus Aurelius
  2. “The purpose of our lives is to be happy.” – Dalai Lama
  3. “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” – Ferris Bueller from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
  4. “Lighten up, just enjoy life, smile more, laugh more, and don’t get so worked up about things” – Kenneth Branagh
  5. “Learn to enjoy your own company. You are the one person you can count on living with for the rest of your life.” – Ann Richards
  6. “‘Cars’ was about Lightning McQueen learning to slow down and to enjoy life. The journey is the reward.” – John Lasseter, Director of Cars
  7. “Do not squander time, for that’s the stuff life is made of.” – Benjamin Franklin
  8. “We are bombarded on all sides by a vast number of messages we don’t want or need. More information is generated in a single day than we can absorb in a lifetime. To fully enjoy life, all of us must find our own breathing space and peace of mind.” – James E. Faust
  9. “Live and work but do not forget to play, to have fun in life and really enjoy it.” – Eileen Caddy
  10. “The most important thing is to enjoy your life – to be happy – it’s all that matters.” – Audrey Hepburn

I know that “YOLO” is outdated, but it’s true: You really do only live once, so you should try to make the most of it. Would you rather say you spent your whole life overthinking things and letting negative thoughts control you, or that you lived your life to the fullest and enjoyed all the amazing things life has to offer? These quotes helped me realize I should spend my time enjoying life and being happy, and I hope they’ve done the same for you!

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Resources, Student Life

Debunking Myths About Online Classes

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Since a lot of classes are being offered online rather than in-person in order to keep students, faculty, and staff as safe as possible; there are sure to be some questions about how online classes will work. Since the switch to online classes during the middle of last semester, a lot of returning students got the chance to experience remote learning and learn how to manage digital classes. For the incoming freshman who haven’t had experience with online college classes yet (or the returning students who are hesitant about online learning), here are some common myths you may have heard about online classes and the reasons that they’re just not true:

1. I won’t learn as much if classes are online: Professors top priority is to teach their students. Just because the way they are teaching has changed doesn’t mean they have stopped trying or caring about students’ education. While certain courses may look different and some of the course material may have been changed to improve online learning capabilities, you will still be able to learn just as much as you would in person. How much you learn also depends on you, not just on the course. If you’re engaging and working hard, you’ll learn a lot and do well whether the class is in person or online.

2. It’s impossible to motivate myself to get work done for an online class: While it may be difficult to motivate yourself to complete assignments sometimes, it’s definitely not impossible, even for online courses. Remind yourself that your grades are still important even though you’re not physically in the classroom. Try to plan times each week to focus on different classes for certain periods of time. For example, maybe take one hour each day to work on assignments or study for your hardest class, and take an hour every other day for another less demanding class. Setting up a schedule like this will help you stay on track and will encourage you to get work done in the time frame you set for yourself. 

3. I won’t have access to help if I need it: Millersville’s faculty and staff members are always eager to help students! You can always contact your professors, advisors, and other staff members when you need help. You can set up Zoom or Skype meetings, phone calls, or just email staff back and forth and they’ll do whatever they can to help you. Millersville’s Writing Center is offering online tutoring for the Fall 2020 semester. You can also check which departments are offering tutoring services, apply to request a tutor, and contact the Tutoring Center with any questions. The Millersville Counseling Center is also a great resource if you’re struggling and need someone to talk to. You can schedule a teletherapy appointment either through Zoom (preferred) or over the phone. Call 717-871-7821 to schedule an appointment.

4. My grades will suffer: Your grades will only suffer if you let them. Just like in-person classes, it’s up to you to keep up with your assignments, put in the work, and reach out if you need help. Professors have been working hard to structure their classes in a way that helps students learn the material and succeed while taking the course remotely. Treat the course as if it were in-person to help yourself perform well. Make time for each of your classes, eliminate distractions like phones while you’re doing work, and remind yourself that doing well in your classes will only help you in the future, so it’s worth it to try your hardest and put in the work.  

5. I won’t know when things are due: Due dates and things like exam days will be on your syllabus for each of your classes. Once you have access to a syllabus for all of your classes, I strongly recommend you put important dates somewhere that you’ll be able to see them regularly. You can use the calendar in Outlook to keep track of when things are due, when you have exams, and so on. It’s quick and easy to add events onto the calendar. If you have an event involving multiple people, like a Zoom study session, you can invite people to join the event and create a Zoom link to go with the invitation. You can also use Microsoft Teams for video calls, and any scheduled calls are saved in your Teams Calendar. Click here to learn more about how you can utilize Microsoft Teams. If you have something like a project that will be due at the end of the semester and you’re not sure when to start it, contact your professor for some advice! In fact, having a digital syllabus is almost easier than having just a physical one, because you don’t have to worry about losing it. 

Your college experience is what you make it. Whether classes are in-person or online for the time being, you’ll still be able to learn and do well if that’s what you want. This semester will give you a great opportunity to learn more about yourself and how you can handle different types of courses, so make the most of it! Try your best and if you’re having trouble, reach out to people. You’re not alone – every Marauder is trying to figure things out just like you! 

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Announcements

6 Helpful Websites for College Students

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There are lots of helpful websites out there that you can access for free which may help you with studying, learning, and navigating college life. Here are 5 of the best websites that students can take advantage of:

1. Quizlet: Every student probably already knows and loves Quizlet, but may not be taking advantage of everything it has to offer. For example, you can turn your online flash cards into an actual sample test with multiple choice, true or false, matching, or short answer questions. I strongly believe that if I hadn’t done this for my biology class, I would’ve never gotten an A. You can also organize your flash cards into folders and share them with your friend.

2. Google Digital Garage: Google Digital Garage is a free online learning tool offered by Google. They offer some free online webinars on topics like staying productive while working remotely and writing a strong cover letter and resume. They also have free online courses you can take in the following categories: Data & Tech, Digital Marketing, and Career Development (great for college students; courses in this category include tips on how to get a job, learn how to network, improve public speaking skills, and so on).

3. Habitica: Habitica is a website and mobile app that helps you keep track of tasks and establish better habits. You can manage any habits you want to work on such as procrastinating less or studying more. You can also manage daily tasks and create a to-do list where you can check off assignments once you’ve completed them. This will help you stay organized and encourage you to improve your habits. The purpose of Habitica is to “gamify your life”. It transforms tasks into “monsters” you have to conquer. The better you are at improving your habits, the more rewards you receive, such as gear for your avatar. This is a fun way to increase productivity and encourage self-improvement.

4. Millersville University Housing Blog: Okay, so maybe I’m a little biased, but the blog site you’re on right now really is a great resource for students. There are all kinds of posts on here, like ones teaching you about self care, how to succeed in college, information about Millersville University and student life, motivational posts, and so much more. They’re easy to read and the site is updated with new posts each week. You can also subscribe to this blog to get notifications about new posts and links to the posts sent straight to your email.

5. Slader.com: Slader is a website you can use when you’re having trouble in a course. You can search for your textbook and find step-by-step solutions to textbook problems. You can also ask questions in the Q&A section of the site and get help with problems from other students. They offer textbook solutions for a variety of subjects. The website is free, but you can upgrade to the college plan for a few dollars per month. 

6. TalkTyper: You can simplify the essay-writing process by using this website to translate your spoken words into text. This is really helpful for when you don’t feel like typing and find it easier to say what you want typed and have it typed for you. It’s also helpful for when you’re rushing to meet a deadline and can speak faster than you can type. Then, you can just copy and paste the text into a Word or Google document, edit it, and turn your paper in. Note: this will only work on your laptop if your laptop has a microphone function.

There are lots of websites that exist for the purpose of making student’s lives easier. Are there any that you recommend that we didn’t list? Let us know in the comment section!

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Announcements

Fall 2020 Housing Student Move-In Process Information

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Millersville University has initiated plans to have students move into the residence halls over the course of a week starting on Monday, August 17th at 8:00 AM and concluding on Sunday, August 23rd at 8:00 PM. We want to provide you with direction related to moving in to your residence hall in the safest and most orderly manner possible. We do understand this is going to cause various logistical hardships, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work through this stressful time.

  • Prior to moving in, all residential students will need to electronically sign the housing agreement and newly added addendum by logging into their MAX account and following these menu choices: Student Services >> Housing and Dining >> MyHousing >> Applications >> Fall 2020 Application.
  • Be sure to have a photo submitted for your Millersville University ID.
  • Upon arriving to campus, please go directly to your residence hall to check-in and retrieve your key. Signage will be posted throughout campus to direct you to your specific hall. For our new students moving in Monday – Thursday, there will be student leaders in front of the Student Memorial Center (SMC) to assist with wayfinding and answer general questions.
  • Once you have parked, the student should go directly to the front desk of their residence hall. Again, signage will be posted outside the residence halls directing you to the main entrance. All guests should remain outside and begin unloading items until the student returns.
  • No more than two (2) guests may accompany the student inside the residence hall during the move-in process.
  • Masks must be worn at all times while inside the residence halls.
  • In order to practice safe social distancing, we are staggering the move-in process to one-hour time blocks for each residential area. Students – please refer to the email that was sent to your MU Email account that contain the links to sign up for a time slot.
  • If you need to change your reservation, you can do so by referring to the “Edit My Sign-Up” instructions that will be included in your sign-up confirmation email from Sign-Up Genius.
  • Please understand that there will be limited University services open throughout campus for walk-in’s during any part of the move-in schedule.
  • We strongly encourage students to bring their own handcarts and / or carts as there will be none available to assist with moving-in. Unlike our past fall move-in processes, there will be no volunteers assisting with carrying student belongings to the rooms.
  • For a list of recommended items and belongings to bring with you, check out our blog post titled “Fall 2020 Move-In: What to Bring“
  • You are required to bring your own personal protection equipment, such as masks and gloves to utilize inside of the residence hall along with any disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer. Please note, the use of facial masks are required while on the Millersville University campus.
  • Students should also bring with them a personal thermometer for daily self-screening.
  • You may want to coordinate with your suitemates (if applicable) to coordinate different move-in dates and / or times in order to maximize social distancing efforts.
  • Dumpsters will be located outside of the residence halls so that you are able to dispose of any trash. Please breakdown all boxes before disposing.

We are working under federal, state and PASSHE guidance. Please continue to view the University’s Coronavirus page for updates as well as checking your student email account for ongoing information.

Announcements, Lists

Fall 2020 Move-In: What to Bring

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What should you bring with you when you move into the residence halls? We’ve compiled a list of essentials that you should bring with you on move-in day to help you answer that question. Feel free to print out this list and check off items as you get them to keep track of what you have/don’t have.

Due to the uncertainty surrounding the current COVID-19 situation, we ask that you do not pack everything you own, and that you stick to bringing the absolute essentials. Examples are listed below. This will also expedite the move-out process in the case that we need to fully close the residence halls due to the changing COVID-19 environment. Additionally, on-campus housing will be closed for the remainder of the semester on November 21, 2020 at 5:00pm. We stress that you pack lightly in order to simplify the move-out process.

Please note that we will NOT provide hand carts/trucks/dollies, so students should prepare accordingly to bring their own. We apologize for the inconvenience, and thank you for your continued cooperation as we navigate this challenging situation.

Essentials for your room:

  • Bedding (sheets, comforter, pillowcases)
  • Pillows
  • Plastic storage bins
  • Clothing (weather appropriate – short sleeve shirts, long sleeve shirts, shorts, pants, shoes, socks and underwear)
  • Laundry basket (Tip: bring one that folds up for easy packing and moving)
  • Laundry detergent
  • Hangers
  • Small trash can
  • Dustpan and brush
  • Computer/laptop
  • Cell phone
  • Medication(s)
  • Desk supplies (pens, pencils, scissors, stapler, etc)
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Masks
  • A personal thermometer for daily self-screening
  • Mini-refrigerator (The University contracts a third party for leasing refrigerator and microwave units which are leased on a yearly basis and will be delivered to your room. For more information, visit the MicroFridge website.)

Essentials for your bathroom:

  • Towels
  • Hand soap
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, etc.
  • Razor
  • Trash bags and small trash can
  • Toilet plunger
  • Toilet brush
  • Toilet paper (You must provide your own toilet paper)
  • Cleaning supplies, including toilet bowl cleaner, disinfectant cleaning spray, paper towels

Click here to learn more about what to bring and what not to bring with you. Keep packing hassle-free and eliminate the stress of move-in day by following our guide of what you should bring with you when you move into your residence hall. Remember: Students living on-campus for the Fall 2020 semester are strongly encouraged to pack lightly and focus on bringing essential items. Let us know if you have any questions about what you should/should not bring with you to move-in day in the comments!

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Announcements

Housing Zoom Open Forums

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HARP Open Forums Flyer Updated

Housing and Residential Programs staff understands that students and parents have questions regarding Fall 2020 housing. We highly encourage students and parents to join us for our open forums we will be holding via Zoom to address their concerns. Before attending a forum, please check that your question has not already been answered in our FAQ post.

Zoom Open Forums Schedule and Links:

Open Forum #1:

Open Forum #2:

Open Forum #3:

Open Forum #4:

Open Forum #5:

Open Forum #6:

Open Forum #7:

Open Forum #8:

Announcements

Fall 2020 Housing Information

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We have compiled a list of questions and answers regarding important information about housing and move-in for the Fall 2020 semester. This information only applies to campus housing, which includes East, South and West Villages along with Reighard and Shenks Halls. We truly appreciate your patience through this challenging time.

Q: When will I know my room/suite assignment and be billed?

  • A: Students who previously requested housing by filling out the housing application and did not cancel/opt out of housing will have a housing space secured. August 3, 2020 was the deadline for students to cancel so that the University can readjust those remaining in housing to make sure the “one-per-bedroom” strategy is adhered to. Building/suite assignments and the corresponding billing will be available to view on a student’s MAX account starting on Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2020.

Prior to moving in, all residential students will need to electronically sign the housing agreement and newly added addendum by logging into their MAX account and following these menu choices: Student Services >> Housing and Dining >> MyHousing >> Applications >> Fall 2020 Application. 

Q: When is move-in?

  • A: Students with on-campus housing for the Fall 2020 semester should plan for move-in to occur from Aug. 17-23 with 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. one-hour timeslots. New students participating in Orientation move in Monday-Thursday and returning students will move in Thursday-Sunday. Once assignments are finalized, students will be sent a specific link for their particular residence hall to sign-up for a move-in date and time.

Q: What do I need to know about the move-in process?

  • A: To maintain a safe and socially distant move-in process, students will be required to sign-up for a specific day and time. Time slots will be in one-hour increments starting at 8 a.m. and ending at 8 p.m. Students will be permitted to have two (2) family members or friends to help with moving in. Students and families are responsible for providing their own personal protective equipment (PPE). All students and move-in helpers are required to wear a mask while inside the residence halls. Those who do not have a mask will not be permitted inside the building. There will be no moving carts available, so students should prepare accordingly to bring hand carts/hand trucks/dollies. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the current COVID-19 situation, we ask that you do not pack everything you own, and that you stick to bringing the absolute essentials. This will also expedite the move-out process in the case that we need to fully close the residence halls due to the changing COVID-19 environment. Additionally, on-campus housing will be closed for the remainder of the semester on Nov. 21, 2020 at 5 p.m. We stress that you pack lightly in order to simplify the move-out process.

Q: Will I have a roommate if I live on-campus in the fall?

  • A: We are placing students “one student per bedroom” in order to create social distancing within the residence halls. This means that you will not have a roommate in your bedroom, but you may have a suitemate in the bedroom(s) next to you. Students will be generally placed based upon suite type originally chosen and the suitemate preferences given. Placement changes can be requested via housing@millersville.edu after you view your rooming assignment on Wed. August 12.

Q: Will parents be able to visit their students in the residence halls?

  • A: During the academic year, visitors of students will be limited to those who reside in the same residence hall. While parents won’t be allowed in the residence halls, you can meet outside on campus. In extenuating situations, we will work with parents regarding access into the residence hall as a visitor / guest.

Q: What happens if I have a housing scholarship?

  • A: Housing scholarships are only applied to the cost of your housing charges. A student not living in the residence halls would not receive the scholarship for the fall semester as there would not be any housing charges. If we are able to house students for the spring semester, dependent upon the fluid COVID-19 situation and various government mandates, students living in the Villages would still receive that semester’s portion of the award. So, for example, if a student is awarded $1,000 for fall 2020 and $1,000 for spring 2021, they would still receive the $1,000 for spring 2021. Also, students would not receive any of the awarded housing scholarship as a “refund” if a student withdraws or the University needs to close due to a COVID outbreak. Additionally, students cannot sum the total award and apply it for the spring. So a $1,000 fall + $1,000 spring awarding cannot be applied as $2,000 for the spring.

Q: When do residence halls close for the fall semester and do I need to take my belongings?

  • A: The residence halls will close for the fall semester on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020 at 5 p.m. Students need to fully vacate by removing all their belongings and turn in their room key. No room rate adjustments will be provided between this date and the end of the fall semester.

Q: What happens if there is an outbreak and the residence halls need to close during the semester?

  • A: Should the need occur to evacuate campus, the Department of Housing & Residential Programs, with the assistance of University Communications & Marketing, will inform students of the closure of the residence halls. Students will need to fully vacate the residence halls by fully moving out with all their belongings. Students will be able to “express check out” by placing their key in a provided envelope and drop it in a locked box in each of the residence hall front desk areas. This eliminates the need of a staff member having to physically check a student out of their room.

Q: Will there be housing available during the break?

  • A: Break housing will be available between the period of Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020 at 5 p.m. and the start of the spring 2021 semester for students demonstrating extenuating circumstances and approved by the Department of Housing & Residential Programs. More information will be sent out during the semester on how to sign up.

Q: If I am not living on-campus this fall, will I receive a refund for my housing deposit? 

  • A: Your housing deposit will be retained on your student account and applied toward the cost of your housing for the spring semester per the provisions of the housing agreement. Should we not be able to accommodate you for student housing for the spring due to COVID-19 restrictions, your deposit will be refunded or applied to your general student account if you have a balance.

Q: Will there be spring housing?

  • A: We are planning on having student housing for the spring if we have space available and provided that we are still able to house students dependent on the COVID-19 situation. During a “normal year” we typically open with more vacant spaces in the spring than we do in the fall. A student who opted out for fall, or is a new admit for the spring, will need to complete a Spring 2021 Housing application that will open Oct. 1, 2020. A student who is here for fall will not have to re-apply for the spring. We will certainly post more information as we progress through the semester to inform the student community on the status of housing and dining for the spring.

We ask that students check their MU email account regularly for any important information sent from Housing & Residential Programs. Students and parents can also refer to the @villehousing Twitter and Instagram accounts and Millersville Fall 2020 Webpage for more information about the Fall 2020 semester.

Student Life

What Does It Mean to Be A Marauder?

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When you enroll as a student at Millersville University, you become more than just a student; you become a member of a family. I say we’re a family because we help each other out by supporting each other, bringing out the best in each other, and growing together as a community. So, what does it really mean to be a part of this family? In other words, what does it mean to be a Marauder? Who better to ask than Marauders themselves! Here’s what some MU students had to say about what being a Marauder means to them:

Lindsey Edwards, an Early Childhood Education and Special Education dual major and member of the class of 2024 says: 

  • Being a Marauder means taking the next step into adulthood with new friends and learning how to succeed in the future!!”

At Millersville University, student success both during and after college is a priority for professors and staff members. However, a big part of success comes from having a support system of fellow students encouraging you to do well, which is exactly what Marauders do!

Marina MacGregor, who plans on graduating in Fall 2020 and is a Social Work major with a minor in Phsychology, says:

  • “Being a Marauder means working toward acceptance and love for others who are from completely different walks of life.”

Diversity is a huge part of what makes Millersville so special, and true Marauders embrace it. Anyone and everyone is welcome and accepted here!

Abigail Azizkhan, another Early Childhood Education and Special Education dual major and member of the class of 2024 agrees:

  • “Being a Marauder means being able to be myself and feeling loved!”

Being a Marauder also means having school spirit. There’s nothing better than going to a school that you can be proud of and that you really love.

Taylor Olszewski, a Music Education Major who will graduate in 2022 says: 

  • “Being a Marauder means having pride in our campus and campus community as well as holding ourselves to the highest standards!”

Member of the class of 2021 Kaitlyn Hopple, an Early Childhood Education  and Special Education dual major with a minor in Psychology, says:

  • “Being a Marauder means being there for others, standing up for what you believe in, and being proud of your campus community and the differences it showcases.”

Pride in the Millersville community and the desire to help others are two traits Marauders embody. Here’s what else Millersville students are saying about what being a Marauder means to them:

Alyx Matchett, a Secondary English Education and Psychology dual major and member of the class of 2021 says:

  • “Being a Marauder means being part of an amazing community of people who are always willing to learn and experience new things together!!!”

Rhys Wallace, a Secondary Education Social Studies major who is also a member of the class of 2021 says: 

  • “Being a Marauder means challenging myself to grow with my peers.”

Francesca Polito-Wroten, a member of the Master of Social Work (MSW) Program who intends to graduate from the program in 2022, says: 

  • “Being a Marauder means being a part of something bigger than myself. It means reaching my goals with friends along the way that are on the same journey as me.”

Cara Haley, who will graduate in May 2022 and is an Early Childhood Education and Special Education dual major with a minor in Integrative STEM Methods says:

  • “Being a Marauder means being part of a great community that provides you with resources to help you grow! They provide opportunities and events to help us grow as learners inside and outside of the classroom.”

There are lots of things that make Marauders great. Whether you’re a current student, an incoming student, or an alumni, you’ll always be a part of the Marauder family. What does being a Marauder mean to you? Let us know in the comments! Go ‘Ville!

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Staff Spotlight

Housing & Residential Programs Staff Spotlight: Hannah Stoner

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Millersville’s Housing and Residential Programs is proud to showcase our staff and all of the incredible work they do to make the residence halls at Millersville safe and a great environment for students to live and learn in. This week’s staff spotlight pick is graduate assistant Hannah Stoner. Continue reading to learn more about Hannah, her tips for managing schoolwork, and what led her to become a graduate assistant!

What made you want to become a Graduate Assistant (GA)?

Hannah: I wanted to become a GA because I love working with students and want to do anything I can to allow them to feel at home here at Millersville!

What has been the most rewarding part of being a GA?

Hannah: The most rewarding part of being a GA has been building a close-knit family with my Desk Attendant and Resident Assistant staff.

How have you been handling everything caused by COVID-19?

Hannah: This is a chaotic and difficult time in the world, but I am hanging in there and doing what I can to stay safe during COVID-19. I have been spending my time cooking, playing Animal Crossing on my Nintendo Switch, and hiking during quarantine!

Do you have any tips for succeeding academically given the various changes?

Hannah: I know that it can be hard to focus on schoolwork when there is so much uncertainty in our country right now. I would recommend putting aside time to study and do homework away from distractions. Make sure that you are taking breaks and spending time outside or being active!

Do you have any advice for residents regarding how to keep themselves and others safe from COVID-19 this fall?

Hannah: Remember to wear your mask and continue to social distance in order to keep yourself and others safe!

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Advice, Health & Wellness

How to Handle Stress

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Stress is totally normal – and it totally stinks. Whether your stressed about a job, schoolwork, personal relationships, or pretty much anything else, it can be hard to cope with. Fortunately, there are some ways that you can manage your stress and stop it from controlling your life. Keep reading to find out what they are and how you can use them to start feeling better:

1. Talk to someone

Source: http://gph.is/1E2gEVj

Reaching out to people who care is one of the best things you can do when you’re feeling overwhelmed. You’re not alone – stress affects everyone in some way, and it really helps to get things off your chest. If you feel like there’s no one you can reach out to, Millersville’s Counseling Center is open for the summer and you can schedule a teletheraphy appointment either through Zoom (preferred) or over the phone. Call 717-871-7821 to schedule an appointment.

2. Look at the positives

Source: http://gph.is/Z13tvg

Is the glass half full or half empty? That depends on how you look at it! If you send all of your time focusing on the negatives, you’ll never be happy and it’ll be much more challenging to de-stress. When you’re faced with something that stresses you out, try to think: “What are the positives of this situation?” “Are the negatives really as bad as I’m making them out to be?” You may not be able to make the situation better, but you can improve how you respond to it.

3. Practice relaxation techniques

Source: http://gph.is/1nsl36C

Close your eyes, imagine yourself in a calm environment, relax your muscles, and take a few deep breaths. Try to clear your mind by focusing on your breathing rather than whatever is stressing you out. You may feel like just closing your eyes and taking a few deep breaths won’t help anything, but it really does!

4. Take time to yourself away from stressors

Source: http://gph.is/1X5vRNX

What are some things that help you relax? For me, I love cooking/baking and watching my favorite shows on Netflix. Whatever it is you like to spend time doing, take a bit of time out of your day when you’re feeling overwhelmed to enjoy that activity. Whether it’s for ten minutes or two hours, take however long you need to regroup and relax your mind.

5. Accept that there are things you can’t control

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As much as we’d like to be able to control all aspects of our lives, we can’t. There are things like the COVID-19 pandemic that happen and there’s nothing we can do to stop it. Stressing out about the things you can’t control won’t help anything. There’s nothing you can do to change the situation, so it’s important to recognize that, realize it’s okay, and do what you can to make the things you can control better for yourself.

6. Take care of your health

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Making sure you’re physically healthy can help improve your mental health. Eating healthy and exercising can help you relax and manage stress. I like going on walks after a long day to unwind and decompress, and I think it really helps me feel better after I’ve had a stressful day!

Stress is extremely common, but manageable. Don’t let it control your life.  Practice the techniques above or let us know what techniques you use to cope with stress in the comments! Remember, tough times don’t last forever, and you’re not alone!

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