Every college student has been there. Whether its stress from classes, fighting with roommates, or being homesick, we can't lie when saying we’ve all experienced that feeling where nothing is going your way. I am currently in this boat while I am bombarded with midterms, papers, and having to write an article for this week. As I've experienced a lot of stress and constant mental breakdowns, I've become better at coping with stress. Here are just some of the best ways to reduce stress in hard times...
1. Relax
Nothing gets done when your stressed. So if your mid-mental-breakdown, put down the books and relax. Studying for long periods of time isn't good for your memory, but if you take short breaks, you will retain more information. For me, watching Netflix/Playing FIFA is definitely the first study break option.
2. Clean
When the place that your living in and working in is messy, it adds to the stress you have. Especially if you are a neat freak like me. Cleaning your room is always the go-to move for me when I am stressed out. Your room will be clean, and you'll hopefully be less stressed.
3. Stay Creative
With all of your commitments stretching you left and right, you need something to keep you human. This is where your creativity and passions come into play. Whether its doodling pictures or playing your guitar, you have your hobbies for a reasons. When your stressed out from work, take a little break and do something that you enjoy.
4. Exercise
Whether its hitting the gym to lift or going for a nice long run around campus, exercising is always a good way to clear the head. This is a great, proactive way to escape all of your worries for some time.
5. Get Enough Sleep
This one is probably the hardest, but it is proven to be true. If your just like any other college student, your sleeping schedule is atrocious. If you can force yourself to go to sleep, and wake up somewhat at the same times everyday, you will be less stressed. Working on getting enough sleep is essential if you hope to reduce stress.
6. Call Home
As uncool as some people will see it, calling home and talking to parents/siblings is a great stress reliever. If you dorm at school, its inevitable that you will get a little homesick from time to time over the course of the semester. Talking to a familiar voice is one of the most underrated ways to relieve stress.
7. Eat Well
This one is tough to begin with and, after you work in the factor that you are a college student, it's even harder. Let alone being broke, the dining hall food is also disgusting (but there are always ways to eat well). Eating a healthy sufficient amount of food will make you feel better, which is the ultimate goal.
8. Listen To Music
Music is the best way to block out the world and just relax. Its crazy how effective playing a random song can be on boosting your mood. Listening to some music while your studying or during a study break can really reduce stress. For me, I listen to a lot of J. Cole, Kid Cudi and The Chainsmokers.
9. Read
This one can go both ways. If you hate reading, then this cant help you. But if you enjoy reading an article, or maybe a few chapters of a novel, that's a great way to calm down and clear your head. Having a good read before bed can also help you sleep better.
