Best places to have a mental breakdown on campus

By Lillie Salas Features Editor

That time of the year, which practically every student dreads, is here. It’s time for finals.

Many students could have a love-hate relationship with the end of the second semester. It is so close to summer break, but each day nearing the end is another essay, another test and another deadline.

How does an individual efficiently cope with impending madness? Is it enough to have a planner and check off every assignment? There are proven methods to reduce stress and anxiety, such as exercise.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, physical activity serves as a good distraction from daily stressors and it can release “feel-good” endorphins to make someone feel better.

While it may be a fun fact, not everyone can get to the gym and afford to spend hours waiting for one machine. So, what options are left?

Take a short amount of time and have a public mental breakdown.

The University is full of locations that provide spaces to fall apart! Five locations stuck out as ideal spots to do so.

1. Bardeen Quadrangle

Coming in hot at number one is Bardeen Quadrangle, also known as the beloved engineering quad. Located on the north end of campus, it is full of beautiful scenery, modern facilities and hundreds of overworked STEM majors.

Laying in the grass above the running waters of Boneyard Creek is truly an enriching experience. No one will notice your crying, kicking and screaming because everyone else is doing the exact same thing.

A study from Stanford University found people experience positive mental benefits by being in nature. A good scenic view may be just what someone needs to release all the mental tension from the final weeks of classes.

Sometimes, the workload is so awful, you just need to reconnect with nature. Go touch some expensive grass.

2. Krannert Amphitheatre

What many students refer to as the “Krannert steps,” the Amphitheatre is a close second for an awesome spot to be able to question the decision of going to college.

The Amphitheatre is sitting on the west terrace and facing the Main Quad. The best time to visit is when the sky darkens.

The color changing lights will provide a unique ambience as you lay flat on your back with your headphones on.

Cry into the oblivion while your sad song playlist blares into your eardrums and permanently damages your hearing.

During the day, Krannert Center’s website said it is a great spot for cloud watching, lunch and coffee. The benefits of visiting during the day or night could be interchangeable. It really depends on what kind of vibes you want.

Sadness, “emo” feelings and questioning the foundations of the ways you choose to live is great for the nighttime experience. The stars will provide a sense of comfort, strangely. Taking a breath during your busy schedule, people watching and appreciating the little things in life is great for the daylight.

The Amiphitheatre can do it all! Another multitalented facet from the Krannert Center.

3. The Ikenberry Dining Hall

Take a stroll down Gregory Drive and wait in a 30-minute line for a corn dog. Then, cry over it in the corner of the seating areas. It is a great way to end a long day of classes. If someone wants to silently sniffle and blend into a crowd of wound-up students viciously munching on pasta, this is the spot for them. Sections A-G are recommended for a little more privacy. You may get some concerned looks, but the Ikenberry Commons residents