Because stuffy noses are a regular friend in the winter season.

It all started in the middle of the night. I woke up sweating with a blistering headache and an unbearable stuffy nose.

Sadly, this was just the beginning.

The day after, I trudged my butt over to the health center, where they put me on medication due to my flu-like symptoms. With a migraine still accompanying my every move, I wanted nothing more than for my mom to make me some soup and care for me.

But I wasn’t home, and my mom was two and a half hours away. So I called her instead and felt that was as good as it was going to get. I picked up some Advil and DayQuil at the local market and moped on over to my house.

If you’re like me, you’ve probably undergone the same feelings. It is safe to say that being sick in college is a drag. However, with the right foot forward, one is able to self-care their way to wellness.

Without further ado, here are the steps to getting through sickness in college:

1. Get at least 7-9 hours of sleep

I know you have so many things to do and so much studying to catch up on, but what your body really needs rest. The more you withstand the resting, the longer this sickness is going to be a burden.

2. Fill up your water bottle

In the last couple of days, I have consumed more water than ever before. The great thing about water is the more you drink it, the more you crave it. Water is going to be your saving grace when you’re sick, and it will flush out all the nastiness in your system.

3. Order a medicine ball from Starbucks

Yes, even a barista can care for you in this time. The medicine ball is a secret drink that Starbs baristas made for those who are feeling sick. It contains several different teas, and though it doesn’t taste like the best drink in the world, it is enough to help you feel better. Your body will thank you for all the healthy nutrients in this drink. Bonus points if your barista gives you some encouragement for your sickness.

4. If you’re not getting better, get your booty to the health center

I know the walk is long and it’s really cold outside, but this will be good for you. Having someone care for you while you are away from home is a huge perk of the health center experience.

While I was in the health center waiting for my prescription, they had me rest in the back room. The nurse tucked me in with a blanket and asked if I wanted any Gatorade. I hadn’t felt that pampered in forever. So if you want to feel better and start tackling this sickness for real, I recommend trudging over to the health services center. Your health matters and they make that very clear.

5. Don’t be afraid to miss class

Really, missing class is not the end of the world. You are ill, and in all honesty, you don’t want to get other people ill as well. So do yourself and everyone else a favor and miss a few classes. And make sure you email your professors to let them know beforehand. Truth be told, your health is more important than your GPA!

6. Call home

Being sick can get lonely. It is perfectly okay for you to give your parents a nice call and ask them for a pep talk. When I call my mom or my dad, I can instantly feel some familiarity and comfort, and it reminds me that I am not alone.

7. Order Jimmy John’s

Need I say more? If you don’t want to make yourself food or leave the house, the best option is to order some good ole Jimmy’s.

8. Take a breather

Watch your favorite Netflix show, read a book, look up some articles, and cut yourself some slack. Light a relaxing candle and journal your thoughts. Make some goals to tackle for when you are feeling better. And most importantly, say nice things to yourself. You’re in a fragile state, and it’s okay that you’re not conquering the world.

I’m hoping these tips can help you for the next time you’re sick. Being sick in college is never fun, but with your best foot forward, you will be on your way to feeling healthy in no time.