"I feel like I’m about to lose control, but I just need to focus on surviving the day. I’m holding on and setting small goals to push through it." These words echoed in my mind as I faced the storm of emotions swirling around me.

As a student who has navigated a rollercoaster of traumatic events while juggling schoolwork, I was once again caught in the grip of survival mode. Yet, this time, I was determined to transition into growth mode.

When Life Feels Overwhelming

Life often throws curveballs—be it accidents, discrimination, or simply the world not understanding your uniqueness. These uncontrollable challenges can feel suffocating, yet I've discovered ways to regain control even when everything seems intense.

Step 1: Anchor Your Mind

The first step is mental anchoring. Understanding that a moment of suffering is just that—a fleeting moment—helps me resist the urge to inflate it into a permanent disaster. Remember, nothing lasts forever, so why allow temporary pain to dictate my life?

Step 2: Anchor Your Body

Once the mind is steadied, it’s time to ground the body. Stress can wreak havoc on your heart rate and overall well-being. I find comfort in wrapping myself in a heavy blanket, staying hydrated, and using a cool, minty roll-on to soothe my nerves.

Step 3: Celebrate Small Victories

Rebuilding my mental and physical strength empowers me to set achievable goals. I start with basics: eating well, drinking plenty of water, and engaging in fun exercise. Whether it’s jumping jacks or a brisk walk, it’s essential to mix pleasure with productivity. On one particular day, I prioritized research and treated myself to a refreshing drink—small actions that laid the groundwork for greater growth.

Redefining My Narrative

A crucial lesson has been redefining my narrative. Instead of viewing myself as a student failing to complete my degree within the ideal time, I see a student balancing health with education while gaining valuable experience and giving back to my community.

A Glimmer of Hope

This is my glimmer of defiance. I refuse to let life's struggles entirely break me. I continue to uplift myself through the whirlwind of survival mode, all while nurturing the hope that one day I can support others in their battles.

So, if you find yourself drowning in chaos as a student, remember: you have the power to rewrite your own story. Take control, and do so with kindness.