How to Maintain Your Mental Health in College

Luther College student reading on campus

Starting college is an exciting time, but it also comes with a lot of stress, pressure, and emotional ups and downs. You’re learning how to live on your own, manage a full workload, make new friends, and figure out who you are in general, all at the same time. It’s very easy to let your mental health take a backseat while you try to keep up with everything.

The truth is, taking care of your mental health is not optional. It’s essential. The habits and choices you make now can set the tone for your entire college experience and your life in general.

Take Advantage of Counseling Services

Most colleges offer free or low-cost counseling services, yet many students never use them. Whether you’re dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, or just need someone to talk to, a licensed counselor can help you process your emotions and develop healthy coping strategies that will help you get through college. I personally attend biweekly therapy sessions. There’s no shame in seeking help. In fact, it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness.

Exercise Regularly

Exercise isn’t just about staying in shape. It’s also one of the most effective ways to support your mental health. Regular exercise boosts endorphins, which are chemicals in your brain that act as natural stress relievers. Exercise has also been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, and it improves sleep.

The best part about this is you don’t have to be an athlete to benefit. A 30-minute walk around campus, a short yoga session, or joining an intramural team like bowling can make a huge difference in your mood and energy levels. The key is consistency. Find something you enjoy and make it part of your routine. And you don’t have to do it alone! Gather your friends and go for a hike, a swim, or attend a community dance/yoga class.

Follow the Doctor’s Orders

Your physical and mental health are not isolated from each other. Keeping up with your physical well-being can positively affect your emotional state. Make sure to schedule regular checkups with your doctor and stay on top of vaccinations and health screenings.

If you’ve been prescribed medication for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or another condition, it’s important to take it consistently and as directed. Skipping doses or stopping suddenly can disrupt your brain chemistry and lead to serious side effects on both your physical and mental health. I’ve bought a weekly pill organizer personally and I find it to be very helpful for remembering to take medications. If you’re unsure about your medication or feel like it’s not working out for you, talk to your doctor or campus health provider.

Taking care of your body is one of the most concrete ways to support your mind.

Prioritize Sleep

In college, sacrificing sleep is a fast track to burnout and emotional instability. A lack of sleep affects your memory, concentration, mood, and even your immune system. It also worsens symptoms of anxiety and depression.

You should always aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night. Try to go to bed and wake up around the same time every day. Think of sleep as a non-negotiable part of your routine, just like going to class. Your brain and body needs rest to process information, regulate your mood, and recharge for the next day. As soon as I started sleeping properly, I noticed an immediate increase in not only my energy but mood and even grades.

Practice Good Time Management

One of the biggest stressors in college is poor time management. Between classes, assignments, jobs, and social activities, it often feels like there’s not enough time for everything. But learning how to manage your time well can reduce anxiety, help you stay on top of your responsibilities, and give you more breathing room. Make sure to use planners or digital calendars to keep track of deadlines and carve out time for both work and rest. Try breaking big tasks into smaller steps to avoid last-minute cramming, and start early whenever you can.

Don’t forget to schedule time for rest and fun, too. Your mental health will be at its peak when your life is balanced.

Another thing you should do to maintain good time management is to learn how to say no. College offers endless opportunities, but you can’t say yes to everything. Overcommitting can lead to burnout, exhaustion, and even resentment. Whether it’s an extra club, a night out, or another group project, it’s okay to say no. In fact, it’s healthy. Protecting your time and energy is an act of self-care. Setting boundaries shows that you respect your own limits, and others will respect those limits in turn.

Build a Supportive Social Circle

College is one of the best times to form lifelong friendships and connections. Having a strong social support network is very important for your mental health. When surrounded by people who listen, support, and care about you, it’s much, much easier to navigate through tough times of life.

Whether it’s a roommate, classmate, teammate, or mentor figure, invest time in building meaningful relationships. Join a club that interests you, attend campus events, or just reach out to someone new. You don’t need a huge group. A few people you trust and feel comfortable being yourself around is enough. Remember, if you’re ever feeling isolated, you’re not alone.

Taking care of your mental health in college isn’t a one-time fix. Check in with yourself often. Make space for both your responsibilities and rest. Ask for help when you need it. And remember that your wellbeing matters just as much as your GPA.

Luther College Wellness Resources