How to Start the Semester Thriving: Tips from a Therapist in Tampa, FL

August: the beginning of the fall semester, the time when most students return back to school, and one of the hottest months in Florida. 

Like many students, you may be traveling back to campus after being home for the summer, ready to reenter with your college world and get back into the rhythm of school. You may be entering graduate school or a pre-professional school (dental, medical, pharmacy, etc), and you’re excited to start gaining specialized knowledge and expertise for your chosen career path. You might even be starting college for the first time, feeling anxious and excited to start this new chapter of your life and academic career. Whatever the case may be, a new semester often brings a mix of anxiety, excitement, and new beginnings. As a therapist in Tampa that specializes in working with college and professional students, let's discuss some ways you can set yourself up for a successful, healthy semester this new school year.

If possible, choose classes that are scheduled when you feel most energized.

Everyone’s brain is different. Some people feel most productive and awake in the morning, while others need a couple hours to adjust and reach their peak performance. For instance, if you know you had difficulties waking up for that 8 AM class last semester, try to schedule your courses for a later time, so you can ensure you’re making it to class and your brain is ready to learn. 

(If you’re not able to schedule your classes when your brain is functioning the best, try to schedule study sessions during those hours instead.)

Stay on top of your assignments at the beginning.

It can be easy to fall behind and feel overwhelmed if you’re not completing assignments and doing readings on time when the semester begins. Start off the semester strong by completing assignments before they're due and find your routine with your class schedule. It’s better to start getting adjusted to your semester schedule early because it only gets harder as the semester continues.

Focus on creating balance in your schedule

There are many facets of wellness, and you need to be taking care of your psychological, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual health too. Don't forget to schedule in time to socialize, move your body, enjoy your hobbies, and rest. Many students I've work with are overachievers, and they often have difficulties taking time to rest or take care of themselves, leading to burn out, health problems, and lower performance in class. Focus on creating a routine that takes care of you as a whole person, so you can do your best this semester.

Practice mindfulness to reduce stress.

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully aware in the present moment, nonjudgmentally. Mindfulness has a ton of benefits including reducing stress, increasing focus, improving mood, reducing anxious thoughts, and improving sleep. In addition, mindfulness is very accessible; you can practice mindfulness while washing dishes, laying in bed, or even during your walk to class (e.g. noticing how the air feels, checking in with your body, listening to the sounds of campus, becoming aware of the different plants and animals roaming around). Incorporating mindfulness into your routine can give your mind a quick little rest before it has to take in so much new material in class.

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Hi, I'm Sasha! As a therapist in Tampa, FL that specializes in working with college students (and former college/graduate student), I know how stressful the beginning of the semester can be. You don't know how tough your classes will be, how well your professors will teach, or sometimes even where your classes are. There can be so much more pressure to do well when it's a new semester, and it can be overwhelming at times.

College is hard. If you feel like you could use more support as a college/professional student, therapy can provide you with a safe space to process your stressors and work through your concerns. I provide therapy in Tampa, FL for anxious, overwhelmed teens and adults who want to live more balanced, fulfilling lives. Together, we will explore what's holding you back, gain insight, find new ways to cope, and experience growth. If you're interested, feel free to give me a call or fill out my contact form to schedule an appointment. I also offer free 15 minute consultations to prospective new clients to explore if we would be a good fit.

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