It’s that time of year already: the “Athens plague” is spreading, everyone is frantically studying for midterms and all-nighters are being pulled.
Essentially, it’s a recipe for disaster.
The middle weeks of the semester are always some of the toughest. Emotions such as homesickness and burnout begin to sneak up on us all, and the light at the end of the tunnel feels miles away. Thanksgiving, the first big break aside from long weekends, is also still out of reach, and the longing for a few days off to recharge for the rest of the semester is growing for all of us.
All the stress of this school year — combined with other more personal factors — can weigh heavy on all of us. With that in mind, it’s important that we all remember to check on those in our circles, including ourselves.
The Bobcat community is a tight knit one. Students rally for one another when programs are in danger, have created bonds virtually during the pandemic and formed new organizations where they can feel safe with members of their community. A Bobcat is always there to help a fellow student in need.
However, it’s not always easy to say you need that support from a friend or fellow student. It can be equally as difficult to tell when someone in your circle is silently struggling.
So, take time this week to check on those around you. Whether it’s as simple as letting a friend vent about a big project or helping someone navigate mental health resources, you will undoubtedly make someone feel seen, validated and appreciated.
Amid all the chaos of the semester, it’s far too easy to forget to text your friends on a routine basis or to arrange a group dinner at the dining halls. However, time spent with family and friends is more important now than ever. Taking time to laugh and catch up with those around you will refresh you before you dive into finishing up that big paper — which, yes, will get done.
It’s also never selfish or foolish to strike a fair balance between your school and social lives. College is a balancing act, and you need social interaction and a good support system behind you in order to thrive academically.
If you are struggling mentally or emotionally, there are also university resources that may be of use. Ohio University’s Counseling and Psychological Services, or CPS, offers group counseling for groups of five to ten students. Psychiatric consultations are also available for those who need help receiving a medical diagnosis. CPS also has a 24/7 hotline students can call at 740-593-1616, and additional Telehealth and in-person services are available.
Despite the stigma, there is absolutely no shame in reaching out to friends, family or CPS when you’re struggling. Your best work comes when you take care of yourself, especially when you’re continuing to navigate a global pandemic.
Abby Miller is a senior studying journalism and political science at Ohio University and the editor-in-chief of The Post. Have questions? Email Abby at am166317@ohio.edu or tweet her @abblawrence.
