Even though the new semester has just begun for most students, you may already be feeling the pressure. College can feel like a whirlwind even in its slowest seasons. Classes are stressful enough, but when you add in extracurriculars, a social life, and possibly a part-time job, it can be difficult to manage. 

College life creates a tricky environment for self-care. This is even more true when you struggle with mental health. When you’re having an anxious or depressive episode, healthy habits often fall away. One of the first to be abandoned is eating well. 

Here are some ways you can nourish your body when your mind is struggling.

Eat something.

This one may seem self-explanatory. When you’re depressed, though, sometimes having anything to eat can be a battle. A wave of internet jokes about “depression meals” include foods such as sleeves of crackers and plain tortillas, but just “sleep” as well. 

While the temptation to simply sleep away whatever faint hunger you feel may be tempting, you need to eat something. Crackers may not be considered a meal, but they’re better than nothing at all.

Stock up on food that’s easy to prepare.

One of the main reasons people eat poorly when they’re having a bad mental health day is that they can’t put in the effort to make food. Even the college staple of ramen seems hard to manage. That’s why keeping frozen and microwavable food on hand can be a good idea. 

Thought it might not what you’d normally eat, you may be grateful you have frozen burritos and instant oatmeal around when you can’t manage to make anything else. Something close to a full meal that’s ready in minutes can help your body feel better, so you can focus on your mental health.

Avoid certain foods

Eating something at all is still important! If you can manage it, though, be mindful about your food choices. You might feel inclined to reach for something full of sugar and carbs (like cookies or ice cream) if you’re in a depressive episode. This craving is caused by a decrease in the hormone serotonin, the lack of which is usually associated with depression.