Hopefully you're not starting a pattern that haunts you for the next few years...

Hey dude, I'm currently finishing up my second year and I've been on quite a journey. Granted, we are certain to have many differences, but here are some of my thoughts and actions that did not wither on the vine or cause me more harm than good.

I generally listened to a lot of Peterson, yet rarely actually made changes as he recommends, because I exist in a limbo state of doing nothing, amd can choose to live so if I prwfer it. However, it can get out of hand. Not going to class? It can be a tough motherfucker to change ONCE YOU HAVE HABITUATED IT. Or, you get used to going to class and then it feels as if a debt has lifted off your shoulders. Either pathways are open to you NOW. Your choice, but I underestimated the isolation I would experience from skipping class and playing videogames all day. Socially, I was a recluse. It took me years to realise this. Prevention is better than cure.

Anyhow. My campus provides free therapy for a decent amount of sessions, and I would recommend you inquire asap as to your own options. By this I mean prevention is better than cure, and the stigma against therapy is bullshit. You do not see a psychologist because you are depressed. You see him because he is your personal helper for YOU to not just improve but enjoy and revivify your own life. See one now AND when/if shit hits the fan in the future.

Is see others calling you depressed. Bullshit (probably). Don't get too hung up on thoughts of your own special predicament. You are not special insofar as this is a common problem with students everywhere. You're normal, if a little off track by your own definition. Peterson often talks about how we are fundamentally flawed, but be careful of such thinking about yourself. Read rule 2. The actual rule is an antidote to the feelings of sin and inadequacy Peterson explores via the Genesis myth. I fought through a lot of self-hate, and only now, once I've made peace with my "flaws of character," do I actually feel inclined to take care of myself as if I am responsible for myself, because the truth is tuat you are. Part of that responsibility is not warping your self-esteem with self-loathing.

Lastly, if you see a problem on the horizon, take care to prevent it beforehand. Prevention is better than cure. Start right, or you'll be dragging through your college years as if it were a punishment. Best of luck,

Armand