True service to others begins with taking care of oneself. In the high-pressure environment of college, prioritizing self-care is not an act of selfishness but a necessity for sustaining academic success, personal well-being, and meaningful contributions to the community. Without a strong foundation of mental and emotional health, students struggle to meet their responsibilities—both to themselves and to those they aim to serve. By integrating self-care into daily life and fostering a campus culture that values mental health, students can better support both themselves and those around them.
Mental health struggles among students are often hidden behind smiles. According to the Healthy Minds Study, over 60 percent of college students experience mental health concerns, with anxiety and depression being the most common. Connie Briscoe, Executive Director of Campus Health and Wellness at Rollins, has observed similar trends. “Nearly 70 percent of our students say their mental health is impacting their academics pretty dramatically,” she said.
These statistics reflect real student experiences. One such story comes from Bonner Leader Gabriela Tirado (‘25) who initially struggled to balance her service commitments, academics, and personal well-being. Her mornings were dedicated to Bonner hours, her schedule was packed with five classes, and she also held a job on campus.
“I didn’t know how to balance everything,” said Tirado. “There were days when I skipped my Bonner hours just to cram for exams. I felt like I was failing not just myself but my responsibilities to others.”
Through reflection, Tirado realized the importance of creating a structured schedule and prioritizing self-care, even in small ways. She began waking up early to run, using that time to clear her mind. “Running helps me start my day feeling calm and productive,” said Tirado. “It’s my way of taking care of myself while still meeting my responsibilities.”
Her self-care journey was not without setbacks. At times, her routines fell apart due to stress and academic demands. But she learned that time management and intentional breaks are critical for maintaining good mental health. “After finals, I make it a priority to incorporate fun and self-care. It’s how I recharge so I can keep giving my best,” Tirado said.
Tirado’s story is a reminder that self-care is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of resilience. While she found solace in exercise, every student’s approach may look different. Fortunately, Rollins College provides resources such as the Wellness Center which offers free therapy and stress-relief activities. Additionally, joining campus organizations can provide structured opportunities for students to engage in activities that support their well-being.
Beyond formal support systems, small, intentional acts of self-care—like taking a 15-minute walk, journaling, spending time with friends, or practicing mindfulness—can significantly help in managing stress. When feeling overwhelmed, simply disconnecting from social media for an hour can help students refocus and recharge.
All students’ struggles are valid. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It is an act of immense courage and self-love. Behind every smile, every achievement, and every success, there is a human story that deserves compassion and understanding.
Mental health is not just an individual concern—it is a shared responsibility. When everyone commits to self-care and mental wellness, they foster a campus culture where empathy and understanding naturally flourish. By making mental health a collective priority, the well-being of all students improves, allowing them to contribute more effectively to their academic and service commitments.
Rollins could cultivate an environment where mental health is as valued as academic success—where prioritizing well-being is not an afterthought but an integral part of daily life. The college motto states, “Life is for Service,” but true service begins with the courage to prioritize one’s own well-being.
Remember: Your story matters. Take care of yourself so you can keep giving your best to others.
The opinions on this page do not necessarily reflect those of The Sandspur or Rollins College. Have any additional tips or opinions? Send us your response. We want to hear your voice.
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