College students commonly experience stress because of increased responsibilities, a lack of good time management, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and not taking enough breaks for self-care.
Small amounts of stress for short periods of time can be healthy, as good stress can help us motivate ourselves to prepare for exams or make positive changes in our lives. However, stress becomes harmful when it occurs for too long or is chronic—when our bodies don’t have a clear indication of when to return to normal functioning. Chronic high stress has several negative effects on our bodies and brains.
Anxiety was a major concern among college students. Should we be surprised? College students are put under so much stress that it’s only natural for them to feel the consequences. Below are practical tips that help you find your way on how to deal with stress at college.
Plan your day
Plan a schedule of balanced activities. College life has many aspects. Some of the most common are fixed: eating, classes etc. Many are flexible: SLEEPING, STUDYING, RECREATION, PERSONAL (errands, family, and laundry). You are either taking lectures, studying, or hanging out with friends. That is okay, but you are constantly surrounded by other people. It is not selfishness. It is about finding yourself. Reserve at least 10 minutes of your day to focus on yourself. Get deep into your thoughts and feelings. Identify the minute that caused stress and anxiety. When you figure out what the reasons, you will be more aware of your reactions.
Regular Exercise -
Yes, there is enough time for that. If you are unable to do it over the week, you can find time during the weekend. It pumps up your endorphins. Those are the neurotransmitters that make you feel good. Pick a type of exercise you feel good about and stay committed to it. You need to turn it into a habit.
Make Priorities - You will have to understand the priorities in life. Sometimes you would not be able to fit everything in that schedule. You want to explore campus, join two clubs, meet new friends, become part of Greek life, and publish something in the campus newspaper. We will have to admit that is a bit too much.
Space for Social Time - When you realize you have to sacrifice some things you like for the sake of studying, your social life is the first aspect to suffer the consequences. Sometimes that is necessary. You will skip a party because you have to work on that English paper. Working on term papers and studying for a whole month without seeing anyone, however, is a problem. You need an outlet. Otherwise, you will accumulate more stress than you are able to cope with. Go dancing, meet new people, have walks… just be around people you like. They help you heal. Stress is part of our lives, but it is also something we can manage. Hopefully, you will get stronger when you start following the tips above. Make plans and priorities, but find time for friends, Outsource when you need to, get some me time, which includes exercise and massage, learn how to control the breath, talk to someone you trust, get enough sleep are the tips giving to reduce the stress.
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