If you’ve been on the internet recently, you may have noticed the world feels like it’s turning to shit. While we’re not here to say whether it’s all gonna be okay or not, we are here to preach the concept of optimism.
Being Co-Editors requires thick skin and optimism at times. From people approaching you at hosts to complain about Critic (usually the crosswords), or reading hate comments on Castle26 (shoutout Hawk Tuah – you’re pretty funny. Surely come and write for us), it can be hard to keep a smile on your dial when you spend hours pouring your heart out for a magazine. Now obviously being an Editor of a little old magazine is not a super-serious job, but has helped us begin to embrace a bit of optimism in our lives.
As low-key optimists, we reckon the concept is often misunderstood. Yes, you can still be upset at the world – whether its politicians, inequalities or that one assignment that’s creeping closer to the due date. We can’t control the curveballs that are thrown at us – but how we compartmentalise and respond to these is where a bit of happiness comes in handy.
When the negative thoughts compound, it can create a cycle of worry and unease that can get in the way of your daily life. We’re sure that’s not news to anyone. But on an off day, think about how cool your high school self would think you are right now. Small things like that can break the chain of negative thoughts – you can’t control the world around you, but you can control your mind.
Being students in Dunedin can create a lot of things to worry about on a daily basis. Many of us have to think about balancing a job, clubs, assignments, flat chores and a social life. All while often being hours away from family. When you add on everything else – politics, climate change, the job market – students' lives can be stressful despite all the cooked shit we get up to. Give yourself some grace.
However, this isolation is part of what makes Ōtepoti such a special place. With so many young adults all in one neighbourhood, support networks form quickly. While you sometimes worry with one another, you can also laugh, dance, and enjoy company together – even when it feels like the world around you is crumbling to bits.
To be an optimist does not mean to be free of all worries – that is a take that doesn’t acknowledge the inherent privilege of not being able to worry about anything. But even with this misunderstanding, optimism should never die, despite the state of the world. Hold your friends closer, text your mum and tell your situationship how you really feel. These are scary times but sometimes cracking a laugh while in the thick of it can be more helpful than you think.
Despite the state of the world, you are never alone. Free call or text 1737 anytime to access mental health support, or you can call YouthLine on 0800 376 633 or text 234. On campus there are a plethora of support options available: Chaplains, OUSA Student Support and Student Health. And keep looking out for your mates.
