I feel like I’m an “old pro” when it comes to stressing out. In fact, you can call me a “professional stressor.” I stress about anything and everything, but it’s something that I can’t help.
With anxiety you are constantly in “fight” or “flight” mode. Some people have a lack of serotonin in their brain, and that contributes to the constant worrying. There are a lot of different methods to help with with anxiety; you just need to find the right ways for you. In my 20 years of living I have found some helpful tips that I would like to share with you:
1. When you start to feel stress coming, stop what you are doing and listen to your favorite song.
I find when I’m stressed about homework I get so stressed that I cannot do my homework right. I have to stop and listen to my favorite music or call a friend to see how they are doing to help me feel more calm. Then I can focus on my homework.
2. Try breathing exercises.
I know you have heard it over and over that focusing on breathing helps relieve stress, but it really does. If you stress easily you should definitely try it out. There are many different patterns and methods you can Google.
3. It is okay to cry.
Some days are more stressful than others, and on those days you may feel the need to “let it out.” That is perfectly fine because there is nothing wrong with crying it out. When I’m stressed and on the verge of tears, crying helps release the tension. Then I can continue doing what I was doing.
4. Don’t let the pressure get to you.
I know this is easier said than done, but resist the pressure to feel stressed out about making the best grade on a test. This is really helpful to reduce stress. It doesn’t matter if you get a perfect "A;" as long as you try your best you will succeed!
5. Do not overload your plate, take care of yourself.
When I say “don’t overload your plate,” I’m saying not to join clubs or classes to the point where you are constantly overwhelmed. Being constantly overwhelmed could make you stress more and push you over the edge. It is also very important to take care of yourself. That means giving yourself time to relax, hang with friends or do anything you want to.
6. Do not look too far ahead on the calendar.
It is okay to see what is due or going on the next week, but do not check what is going on next month. In my experience this will only increase your anxiety and make you worry about something that is a month away. Take it one day at a time.
7. Plan out your day.
For me, it was always beneficial to plan out what I was doing, what homework needed to get done and where I was going that day. It helped me stay on schedule and be more productive. Having a schedule can help you feel more organized and not under pressure about any homework due dates.
8. Exercise!
I know, you probably just sighed when you read “exercise.” Exercises can be fun, however hard that is to believe, but you need to find what you like. This semester I’m taking a cardio kickboxing class, and I absolutely love it. After each workout I feel stress-free and more able to focus on the next task I have planned for the day. Exercises can be fun and very beneficial.
9. Counseling.
If you have more severe anxiety or notice that your stress levels have risen tremendously then you may benefit from going to counseling. Don’t be embarrassed to go to counseling, there is nothing wrong with talking to someone about your problems. I have recently started to go to counseling, and it makes a world of difference. Counselors are very helpful people, so I highly suggest going. I promise its worth it.
10. Light up a candle or use a salt lamp.
In my experience, whenever a candle is lit and I smell its fragrance filling the room, I feel more at peace. I cannot explain to you how or why, I just feel much better with a candle lit. Candles are also fun to use during bath time. They create a soothing spa-like environment. I have heard salt lamps are supposed to take away the negative ions in the air, which helps reduces stress. They also help clean your air. I haven’t tried a salt lamp yet, but my best friend has and she swears by it.
I’m by no means an expert at anxiety, but I have experienced it and understand the struggles that come with dealing with anxiety. I hope these tips are helpful and can help you feel more at peace. Good luck with your semester!