Dear Student,
The last year has been so challenging. Though there are so many reasons to celebrate the opportunity to return to Tufts with fewer restrictions, many us may be feeling anxious and uncertain. Switching from our quarantine routines to new routines may not be easy for each of us, but it’s something we can do individually and as a supportive community. Don’t rush, take your time, and listen to your body and mind about what it needs. Consider the following as you return to Tufts for the Fall semester:
Be patient with yourself and others. Anxiety and mixed feelings are normal human responses to the changes we’re going through. Try to be empathetic with yourself and those around you. You’re not the only one.
- Start small. The longer you avoid doing something, the harder it gets. You don’t need to jump headfirst into things – instead, try building up in small increments. For example, if eating indoors in a restaurant or dining hall feels nerve-wracking to you, start slow – try getting takeout with a friend and eating outside, first.
- Communicate clearly. Know your comfort zone and share it clearly with others. For example, if someone is standing too close to you during a conversation, try saying something like, “I’m used to talking at more of a distance. I’m going to step over here while we chat.”
- Take worry breaks. Schedule a 20-minute worry break to write down or think about what’s bothering you and how you can make the situation better. Then, once the 20 minutes are up, do your best to put the worrying aside until your next worry break.
- Identify what you miss from pre-pandemic days. Make a list of activities you miss from your pre-pandemic days. Make it a point to engage in activities you used to enjoy, even if those are still subject to modest restrictions.
- Create new routines to support your wellbeing. Don’t feel pressured to replicate your life as it was before the pandemic. One positive that’s come out of the pandemic is the opportunity to reflect on what – or who – was draining in our pre-pandemic lives. What others are doing now may no longer fit into your life.
- Incorporate anxiety-reducing activities into your new routine. Take care of your body and mind by scheduling in self-care. For example, walk to class or work instead of taking public transit. Or set a reminder on your phone to go to sleep at a particular hour. Movement can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
- Acknowledge grief and loss. Acknowledging the challenges, grief, and loss that many of us have experienced over the pandemic is critical to our individual and community wellbeing. Consider attending a grief and loss support group with Counseling and Mental Health Service or talking about it with a counselor.
With best wishes for the new academic year,
Michelle Bowdler, MSPH
Executive Director, Health and Wellness
Laura DaRos, MS
Associate Dean of Student Affairs for SMFA
Camille Lizarribar JD, PhD
Dean of Student Affairs and Chief Student Affairs Officer for AS&E
Julie S. Ross, PhD
Director, Counseling and Mental Health Service
