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February can be a tough month for many of us. Winter is still here, midterms are starting and it may feel like stress levels are rising. If you're feeling overwhelmed right now, you aren’t alone. Here are some tips and advice to help you through the month.

Express gratitude

During stressful times, taking a few minutes to express gratitude can often help me feel better. Sometimes we tend to focus more on what may be going wrong rather than what’s going right. Writing out a few things I’m grateful for in the moment can help release frustration and put things in perspective.

This month, I encourage you to find simple ways to express gratitude. Show appreciation for yourselves and those in your community. Connect with fellow Buffs and share gratitude at events like on Feb. 14 and on Feb. 15.

Be kind to yourself and others

A small act of kindness can go a long way. With many students feeling overwhelmed this month, you may never know how your actions could affect someone else.

Random Acts of Kindness Day is recognized on Feb. 17, and completing small acts of kindness can help spread joy and positivity in our community. Consider different ways you can share kindness with others this month. Random acts of kindness don’t have to be big or extravagant. You could pay it forward in line at the coffee shop, make dinner for your roommate or spend an afternoon volunteering for a cause you care about. 

Remember to also show kindness toward yourself. When life gets busy with classes and other responsibilities, spending time on our interests can become a low priority. This month, I encourage you to find time to do a favorite activity or hobby that brings you joy. Balancing self-care with your other priorities can help you feel better. 

Ask for help

If you’re struggling with something—maybe it’s your coursework, finding an internship or making friends—ask for help. This is not always easy, but is one more way you can take care of yourself and show kindness toward yourself. 

There are many people in our Buff community who are ready to offer support and guidance. Use campus resources to help you with whatever you may need:

• If you’re looking to connect with others, check out the Center for Student Involvement, Rec Center and Center for Inclusion and Social Change.
• If you’re looking for a summer job or internship, connect with Career Services.
• If you’re looking for academic help, use the university’s academic support resources.  The Academic Success and Achievement Program (ASAP) is also available if you live on campus or are a first-year commuter student.
• If you’re looking to improve your wellness, review the range of services offered by Health and Wellness Services to support your health and well-being.

Hang in there, Buffs—you got this!

Devin Cramer
Acting Dean of Students and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs