Am I Mentally Prepared For Law School?
Am I Mentally Prepared For Law School?
Being mentally prepared for law school is very important. Mental health is integral to your overall health, which lays the groundwork for your future success. Read on for seven ways to mentally prepare yourself for law school.
Am I Mentally Prepared For Law School?
Speak with your physician.
You and your physician are best situated to determine the quality of your mental and physical health. Let your doctor know of any symptoms or concerns you may have prior to law school. Communicating with a healthcare professional throughout law school can help you stay in control of your mental health.
Diet, Exercise, and Vitamins.
It may be challenging to balance an active lifestyle with the sedentary aspects of law school. You may want to research how you can increase your energy levels or optimize your health and wellbeing during marathon study sessions and back-to-back classes. For example, you may want to revisit your diet, exercise, and vitamin regimen. Conduct an internal assessment and discuss any concerns with a healthcare professional.
Change Your Perspective & Avoid FOMO (“fear of missing out”)
One thing that can be annoying and potentially negative for your mental wellbeing is feeling disconnected from the people and things you love as you dedicate more time to school. An important part of your mental preparation for law school should include establishing healthy boundaries around your relationships and non-law school related activities.
Keep Your Friends & Family Close
It can be really easy to neglect friendships and family members while dedicating endless hours to studying. While it can be tempting to pour everything into law school, it is important to nourish your relationships. Your friends and family will be able to offer valuable insight and perspective as you make your way through law school. Alert them to the fact that you are going to law school and be sure to schedule some calls and visits!
Keep Hobbies
It can be easy to run into the trap of becoming a fully immersed law student who does nothing but study. Truth be told, it is important to manage your time and include time for nourishing hobbies, both old and new. Does your school offer free yoga or crocheting classes? Try something new! Making time to focus on hobbies is an important as it gives your brain the necessary time to relax!
Make a Self-Care Checklist
Law students are human. Quite naturally, you may have moments where you feel down and out. Take a moment to determine what things help you feel grounded, calm, and settled into yourself – perhaps it is journaling, watching a feel-good film, engaging in a hobby, or taking a hot shower. Establish what relaxes you so you can calm down, recenter, and get back to focusing on your studies.
Prepare for Mental Health Days
If things become particularly overwhelming, you may need to take a day or two. Determine the circumstances where you would consider taking a mental health day, and schedule some mental health days. Be sure to follow up with your healthcare professional and/or professors with a status update (e.g., email your professor to let them know you missed class but have reached out to someone for the notes and telling your healthcare professional of any new or worsening symptoms).
Disclaimer: This does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your physician about any concerns.
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