Times Of TIU

Writer: Leoni A.

Editor: Samantha P.

The excitement of April has faded. New classes, new people, and packed schedules have now become routine. But instead of settling in, there’s a quite heavy weight creeping in. You’re feeling unmotivated and pressured, whether it’s academically or socially. 

This is what many call May Blues or 五月病 (gogatsubyou), and it’s more common than you think. Whether you’re adjusting to a new country or school semester, it can be difficult to keep the same energy you had at the start.

If you’re feeling low right now, here’s something you need to remember: it’s okay. You don’t have to feel fine all the time. Everyone experiences emotional ups and downs, and what’s important is finding ways to process and release those emotions creatively, gently, and without judgment. 

The Power of Creative Expression in Tough Times

There are times when emotions are hard to put into words. When talking feels too difficult, creative outlets offer another way to wind down. Whether it’s through music, writing, or visual art, these forms of expression allow you to express your feelings and reflect on them safely and constructively. 

Music: The Soundtrack of Emotion

Music has the power to both reflect and influence our emotional state. Whether it’s a comforting song that reflects how you feel or an upbeat song that lifts your mood, music can help you feel less alone in what you’re experiencing. Start by playing your favorite song on repeat or creating a playlist based on your mood. This small but meaningful habit can be a form of self-care.

Journaling: Writing Your Way Through the Fog

Writing is a simple yet powerful tool for self-understanding. Journaling encourages you to slow down and process your thoughts. It doesn’t have to be a long diary entry, it just needs to be honest. This could take the form of a daily check-in, mood tracker, or visual journal. 

Some helpful prompts to get started:

• How am I feeling today?
• What am I grateful for today?
• What am I looking forward to this week?

These small acts of self-reflection can bring emotional clarity and create a sense of peace when everything feels overwhelming. 

Art & Expression: Creating Without Judgement

Not everything you create needs to be “good.” The act of making something, such as a doodle, a photo, a home-cooked meal, or a poem, can be very healing. This allows you to connect with yourself words alone cannot do. Drawing how you feel, taking photos of what brings you peace, or cooking a warm meal can all be forms of gentle expression. When you create without expectations, you give yourself space to breathe, feel, and just be. 

Conclusion 

Creativity can also be a bridge to others. Sharing a playlist, attending an art event, or journaling with a friend can open the door to meaningful conversations and emotional support. Especially for students, these shared experiences may offer a sense of belonging and understanding during difficult times. 

These small moments of connection, whether with yourself or with others, can be surprisingly powerful. If May feels a little heavier than you expected, you’re not alone. Feeling low doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong, it means you’re human. So the next time you’re feeling low, try one of these small creative acts. It might not fix everything, but it might help you feel a little bit better.