my life, my job and my career

When up and moving away from home for the very first time is all exciting, until you get really into it. My university experience was like what you had expected, partying all the time, meeting new friends etc. But when it comes to really looking after yourself, it’s a whole different story. Like others who also suffer with anxiety, looking after yourself can be a hit and miss situation, which then can cause certain elements of disaster. For example, being a fresher, you are practically in it by yourself from the minute you say goodbye to your parents, as responsibility lies on you. Although that element seems to fade as the weeks go by with the introduction of clubbing or the fact first year grades actually don’t matter. Let’s face it, having a double life, which I had, got me into trouble. Although, it really didn’t take long for my uni life to be the “world” I’ve always wanted or had imagined. However, to have the opportunity to chase my dream career meant trying new things and understand what it really takes to become a journalist, to be put into a world of demands and real skills. However, the love I had for everything was in fact real and was always there or at least that’s what I had thought. I was somewhat “happy” like I was on top of the world. Until half of the year was gone, things started to take a turn. My friendship group and lectures helped me through the tough times, which they all hated from the way of telling me not to do it or stop talking about it, I owe them everything! Because at the end of the day, they had to remind me 24/7 that my impulsive choices were bad for my mental health, an exhausting task to be doing for a whole year , especially as they adore me so much. I was relying on substances and the people around me to make the feeling better and to block out the negativity, just for the night in a bedroom, where it was an isolating but comforting space to be. Therefore, it included trying to “kill” those bad thoughts, just because of a mishap or something I was involved in, again… It took a very long time to finally come to terms that this person I had become was doing things that I didn’t know she could do. However, stepping back completely, and after taking into consideration that it was best not to continue, which both was disappointing and a relief, my well-being is a lot better than it was a year ago. “Saving” myself from going through all of it again, I have never felt lighter. My thoughts are now at ease, and finding things that make my life a lot happier and healthier, such as having a stable job and learning new things every day, has taught me to take back control that I thought I would never get back, or at least I had. By choosing to change those elements in my life, it meant that I have in a way, lost myself and the motivation I once had. It also means that my social life has increased rapidly. Mentally and physically, there are still mishaps, but my impulsive choices have decreased, and I am more positively influenced by people or what is around me. Yet it won’t ever stop me from getting back what I love and the world I once had, but hopefully I will again in a later point in my life.u

my 5 tips...

Write a diaryMy counsellor gave me the idea of writing down my thoughts and how I felt during each day of the week. So, if and when I remember, Make a playlist I would write a small summary in bullet points, especially before going to bed, of all the things that have happened during the day. By doing this, it released all the negativity, and by writing down all the positives, I could reflect on the day. This is also good for those who love manifesting as well, as you can start your day by setting goals for the week or for each day. go on a walk

When you are bored, grab your bestie and make a playlist together with both of your favourite songs. I remember doing this with “Serena” when the both of us were bored one day. We had so much fun going through the different songs which we both loved and had discovered songs the other person knew. Going on a long walk with a friend will not only improve your physical well-being, but your mind too. Talking is always an important aspect into today’s society so open up to a friend whilst getting lost and discovering your inner self in a new city. The mind & body will be more at ease and by having a deep conversation, you will be able to open up a lot more about what is troubling you.

Start a new hobby Neglecting hobbies or using an excuse of “I don’t have time anymore,” especially when studying can be a bit of a downer. However, signing up to new societies might boost that motivation of trying new things and you can even get back into what you once loved. For example, if you loved drama in high school but haven’t done it in a hot minute, there are drama groups at some universities. This also allow you to get back the confidence with people who love the same thing as you. eat good foodMoving to a new city, means going out and discovering all the food options you and your group of friends try. This is a good way to come together and relax with the people you love, and with conversations flowing, you will find yourselves lost into the food and atmosphere around you.