Everyone will experience stress within their lifetime, and stress is necessary for human survival. However, the pressures, deadlines, projects, exams, and lack of sleep that come with college can leave you feeling more stressed out than the average person, especially when you're trying to balance a full course load with a social life and work. Thankfully, there are several actions that students can take to bring down stress levels while working towards a degree.
1. Write a to-do list.
A visual breakdown of upcoming assignments, tasks, and study time fragmented into smaller pieces can help you prioritize which tasks are most important. Also, the feeling of accomplishment when you cross off an item on your list will boost your productivity even more.
2. Cut back on coffee.
College students often seem to rely on coffee for survival. Caffeine consumption might give you an initial energy boost, but moderate caffeine consumption causes fatigue. The ability to deal with stress is reduced by caffeine because it is a stimulant, causing your body to release even more adrenaline and cortisol, which are already at high levels in the blood due to the stress you are experiencing.
3. Get more sleep.
The American Psychological Association says, "Sleep is so crucial that even slight sleep deprivation or poor sleep can affect memory, judgment and mood." Try meditating before bed or staying off of your electronic devices for a few hours before bedtime.
4. Spend time with a furry friend.
Take a break from your busy schedule for some TLC with a loving pet. Even just petting an animal raises levels of the feel-good hormone oxytocin, while lowering stress hormone levels such as cortisol. Adopt an animal if your living situation allows for it, or spend time with a friend's animal.
5. Do some cleaning.
A clutter-free space leads to a clutter-free mind. Try turning on some music and sprucing up your surroundings. Cleaning may give you a sense of control in a hectic and stressful time. The newly tidy surroundings may allow you to be more relaxed when studying and doing homework.
6. Get some exercise (even if you just go for a walk).
7. Take a relaxing bath or shower
Showering is often seen as just another daily task, but if you take the time to enjoy it and relax, it can be a huge stress reliever! Taking time for yourself is vital to your mental health.
And, finally, remember: You can do this; all of your hard work will pay off!
