As the semester approaches, homesickness and academic anxiety tend to follow close behind. Some psychologists note that crying can act as a form of regulation, helping to reduce stress, and fortunately, Prague offers several locations well suited to letting it out.
Park Cihelná (Nutria Town)
Conveniently located a five-minute walk from campus, this spot is ideal for when lectures get overwhelming. With the nutria living their best lives, you can briefly contemplate yours. It’s difficult to overthink while watching laughing children and cute elderly couples, making this a perfect place to distract yourself from your own thoughts. However, make sure you have a good crying face as you’ll likely be in the background of tourist’s Instagram pictures.
Vyšehrad Walls (Only in Daylight)
Vyšehrad attracts tourists, but only to specific areas. When you step away from the main path it’s almost silent. The city views are beautiful enough to put things in perspective. Visiting at night is not advised as the area already looks haunted and there’s no need to contribute to that impression.
Stromovka Park (Reconnect with Nature)
Sometimes the solution is distance. Prague’s largest park offers enough space to meltdown without being noticed. In winter, puffy eyes can be hidden behind a scarf; in summer, they can be blamed on allergies. Either way, here your tears can be romanticized as a part of an over-dramatic film scene.
Vojanovy Sady (at the Risk of Being Seen)
The possibility of peacocks stealing your lunch is usually enough to interrupt a spiral. While the garden is scenic, there is a higher chance of running into people from campus mid-crash-out, which might be helpful if you’re looking for consultation. Fortunately, the trees offer enough cover so a quick post-class cry can still be conducted discreetly in the garden behind campus.
Academy of Sciences Library (Essay Writing Tears)
Join a group crash out including every student in Prague. Here, tears over assignments are a daily occurrence so you can let it all out judgement free as long as you’re quiet. With a vending machine serving coffee for as little as 20 CZK, it’s a nice place to cry and dine.
AAU’s Psychological Counseling Center (Free for Students)
AAU offers free counseling to all students all year. Every student is entitled to four sessions per semester with the ability to request more. There are three counselors specializing in different issues including anxiety, depression and burnout. Here students can find more information and book an appointment.
