MAKEUP ANXIETY
Written by Charlie Killen
Edited by Jessica Eagles 15th Sep 2023
Everyone indeed feels anxious from time to time however some more than others. Being in an industry that can be quite competitive can cause lots of worries and stress. For uni students starting their first year it can be scary and exciting; not knowing what to expect or who you will meet. Second-years, third-years or higher know what to expect but can feel more worried about the workload. However, some additional feelings may be: not feeling like you fit in with the other students, feeling like you are behind on the workload, not fully understanding what you are doing, questioning whether university is the right choice for you, struggling with creative ideas and feeling like everyone is doing a lot better than you. All of these feelings are very valid and you are not the only one feeling this way. I tend to feel very anxious about going into uni (as a commuting student) however once I’m there I feel alright. I think not staying in student accommodation makes me feel a bit out of place but it does have its perks that I can take a break from university easily as I am not living right in it.
One standard coping strategy to help with stress and anxiety is exercising weekly which helps with the hormones in the brain. Having plenty of sleep and eating regular healthy meals to help fuel your brain. Trying to create a routine to help keep on top of the workload and find time to relax and do things you enjoy. However, for me as someone who is quite anxious, I find keeping myself busy and trying to get out of the house helps stop me from overthinking. I do find it hard to find the motivation to get out sometimes but once I’ve been out I do feel a lot better. I tend to get lots of cramps in my stomach when I get overwhelmed so I’ve started trying to take long deep breaths whilst closing my eyes to try and get rid of the pain.
Struggling with friendships can be hard, especially for those who live in student accommodation. Some people may find a click with people straight away and some may be left wondering if anyone is there for them. Throughout life, you will come across hundreds of new people who will come and go. You shouldn’t have to feel like you are forcing a friendship. However, uni is a place for training you up for industry so even if there are people that you don’t have a lot in common with it’s a great way to learn to be professional and civil to be able to get a job done. If you are struggling with feeling alone don’t worry you will meet lots of amazing people through hobbies, part-time/full-time jobs, nights out, through other people. There are lots of people out there for you. One of my favourite people is a lady from work who is 20 years older than me which I never imagined would happen.
Struggling with competition. Everyone at uni has their personal goals and style of work. Just because someone does stuff slightly differently from you and likes a certain method or style, it doesn’t mean that your ideas and choices aren’t brilliant too. It can be hard when you feel like your ideas are drying up or your look doesn’t turn out how you picture it to be. Makeup is about practising and adapting. The looks we see on TV, Film and Theatre have been practised multiple times, and as Makeup Artists, I am sure they are still learning new things too!
Sometimes we need to stop, take a step back or relax and try again later. We are all humans, not robots so sometimes we need a break to help get those creative clogs going again. Remember you are not the only person feeling stressed and worried but your stresses and worries are all valid.
If anything in this post sounds like you, or even if you’re struggling in another way, reach out! There are so many things available and different ways to reach out. Have a look at the NHS website or follow this link to find the best support for you
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/mental-health-services/. If you just need someone to talk to speak to friends, family or see if counselling could be a better option for you. https://www.steps2wellbeing.co.uk/ have a look at the STEPS 2 WELLBEING website where you are able to refer yourself and find a strategy that will suit you and your lifestyle. Don’t forget about the university resources https://students.solent.ac.uk/student-hub/cause-for-concern
https://students.solent.ac.uk/student-hub/mental-health-support/how-we-can-help-you
Solent University offers support and referrals so whether you just want one session to talk to someone or a session every week they are here to help.
