College can be stressful, and at some points it may feel like you cannot manage to juggle school, work, family, and friends. College is the time in your life where you are finding out who you really are as a person, while having to micromanage every aspect of your life. For students with anxiety, this micromanagement and juggling may cause severe stress that can affect their mental and physical health. Depression and anxiety are prevalent in college students around the country. Without ways to cope with your anxiety or stress, it can get out of control, so here are a few tips for managing your anxiety while still being able to enjoy your life as a college student.
1. Take a break. One of the best things to do when you are stressed or anxious is to get your mind off of the things that make you feel that way. If it's by going to the gym, listening to music, or even meditating, stepping back away from the problems may help you clear your head and relax.
2. Learn to recognize when you are stressed. If you do not know you are stressed, you will have no way to stop whatever is causing your problems. If you are experiencing insomnia, irritability, unusual eating patterns, headaches, or muscle tension, you may have anxiety. If you experience any of these symptoms, the best thing to do is to talk with someone about what you are experiencing.
3. Talk to someone. I cannot reiterate enough how important it is to communicate with your loved ones about your feelings and those things that are stressing you out. I know that sometimes it feels better to not "cast your burden" on someone else but your family and friends care about you. The more you talk, the better you will feel. Most colleges also offer free counseling services where you can make an appointment and talk with a counselor about how to manage your stress and anxiety. Longwood University Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) also sponsors a Stress and Anxiety Management group students can learn coping methods and get support from counselors and fellow students for issues related to stress/anxiety.
4. Breathe. One of my favorite, and most helpful ways to help with my anxiety is to sit in a quiet room, with the lights off, and take slow, deep breaths. Listening to relaxing music while I do this soothes my mind and brings down my heart rate, preventing another anxiety attack.
5. Stay Healthy. Staying on a regular schedule, eating a well-balanced diet, and working out can relieve stress. According to studies, regularly working out can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression Remember that a healthy body can help make a healthy mind.
