Drowning out noise with work

I am currently on a two week break from university. I felt quite tired towards the end of the term, and having been struck with covid and the flu, March was a bit of a blur. I knew I could do with some rest but the moment my final lecture had ended, was the moment my mind began racing. 

Over the last few months I entered a vicious cycle of lectures, studying and socialising, so there was very little time for me to check in with my mind and realise that I had neglected my mental health and felt lacking in many areas associated with it. 

This isn’t the first time I have neglected the thoughts in my head. During my Masters I found myself in a negative cycle of thoughts, but with the pressures of a demanding course, it was easier to focus on that, than address the difficulties in my mind. Over the past year, while a pandemic ensued, rather than acknowledging the difficulties,  I worked very long hours in a bank, while simultaneously applying for medicine and consulting opportunities. 

A pattern had begun, where I would drown out my thoughts through work. It’s easier to substitute the problem than to focus on it and address it. The one thing I can say is that neglecting the thoughts is more detrimental. Not giving yourself the time to process will result in the thoughts catching up with you. 

My way of coping and working through these difficulties has come in many forms, including therapy. It’s important to take care of your mind and not drown out the noise through other means. 

If anyone wants advice or even to be pointed in the right direction, please don’t hesitate to reach out. The bottom line is, drowning out your thoughts with something else, although easier, is not the healthier option. Always check in with yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.