Finance
One of the most difficult problems with being independent is being able to financially support yourself. The stress and worrying around money can make your depression feel worse and may lead to hopelessness that you will never find a way out from your money problems. To try and help your mental health in regards to this is to learn to budget your money and make it as stress free as possible. It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle to help improve your depression by eating well and buying good foods, but also to try and not over-indulge on things you don’t need even though you believe they may improve your mood in the short-term.
Getting a part time job alongside your studies may help with financial aid; however it is important to not push yourself too hard. If you feel like you cannot juggle education and work then focus more on your education and budgeting your money well. Your health should be your main priority and you should take all the appropriate steps to a healthier and happier recovery.
Socializing
Suffering with depression may make it hard for you to socialize with new people or make it uncomfortable for you to attend classes where you know no familiar faces. Living with people you’ve never met may seem the most terrifying concept. Yet it is important that you do not isolate yourself in these situations. Depression can become worse when the person is isolated as they feel they have no escape and no one to confide in. Taking small steps to meet new people can help you, even if it is just attending all your classes and meeting your classmates, or making small talk with your roommates if you live away from home. Joining a society or social event in something that really interests you or you are passionate about are also great ways to maintain a stable social life. You do not have to be social all the time or push yourself to be social, especially if you prefer being alone some days. Find a happy balance in your own time to meet new people.
Also if you have good friends around you from your hometown, stay in touch with them. Whether they are near you or far away, social media is a great way to stay in contact and communicate with your close friends. If you’re not ready to meet new people straight away, confide in your current friends and they may give you advice or support you through this.
Conclusion
University is one of the biggest milestones in a person’s life. It is a big decision to make and should not be chosen lightly. Even though I have had hardships whilst studying with depression, finding the appropriate support from the university and my peers has helped me progress through my degree. It is also important to know that you are not alone throughout this part of your life. Millions of people suffer from depression worldwide and some of them are also attending university and trying to do the best they can. Finding ways to cope with depression and studying will help improve you daily routine and mental well-being.
