Transitioning to college can be as scary as it is exciting. Living away from home, prioritizing responsibilities and parting with lifelong norms can all be pretty stressful. According to a survey of more than 93,000 students at 108 colleges by the American College Health Association, more than half experienced overwhelming anxiety, while 85.6 percent of students felt overwhelmed by all they had to do.

The pressure is real, and self-care should be prioritized right up there with academics and social life. To help cope with the transition, here are 13 helpful back-to-school pointers, resources and tips to manage self-care:

1. Be honest with yourself

Feeling overwhelmed is nothing to be ashamed of, and you’re definitely not alone. There are tons of resources and professionals available to support you. Take full advantage.

2. Find your student wellness center

Locate your campus wellness center and keep that phone number on deck in case of emergencies. This is a great resource for physical health, coaching and overall wellness support.

3. Drink plenty of water

Dehydration can negatively impact your mood and your health. Be sure to mind your water intake.

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4. Unplug

We’re all addicted to our mobile devices but the constant scrolling and stimuli can have a negative effect. Heavy cell phone use has been linked to depression and sleep deprivation. Take a moment to unplug from time to time.

5. Locate your counseling and psych services

Many colleges offer free counseling services or group sessions. Don’t hesitate to tap these resources.

6. Get Sleep

Get plenty of rest! Caffeine can be your best friend and your worst enemy during those late night cram sessions, but try not to make a habit of artificial stimulants as they can throw off your sleep pattern.

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7. Exercise

Whether you choose to go to your campus fitness center, jog outside or hit a few yoga poses from the comfort of your room, get in plenty of physical activity. Aside from warding off the dreaded freshman fifteen, the mental effects of exercise are real. The endorphins, adrenaline and dopamine released when engaged in physical activity all work together to help you feel good.

8. Go outside

Don’t underestimate the power of nature to combat stress. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, get outside, walk around campus and take in some fresh air.

9. Volunteer

Nothing provides a guaranteed pick-me-up like helping others. Get involved in community service. Organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and The Boys and Girls Club are always looking for mentors.

10. Get centered

Whether it’s prayer, meditation or praise and worship, your spiritual practice is a powerful tool in maintaining a healthy balance. If you’re missing your home church, the HaloLoop app allows you to livestream and participate virtually in your hometown service.

11. Journal

Relationship issues, that class you might not pass, financial woes…don’t keep it bottled in. Take a few minutes and write in a journal to prevent the buildup of stress and anxiety.

12. Kick back

Schedule downtime to kick it with friends, clown around or just Netflix and chill. Always make time to recharge.

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13. Celebrate

Take a look at what you’ve already accomplished. You’re doing it. You are adulting successfully! Just keep giving it 100 percent.

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