Stress is a primal response to daily pressures, and because of the type of fast-paced world we live in, it surrounds us. For students, stress is consistent. Between the rigor of classes and the drama of social obligations, college students are left with little free time to de-stress. Last semester, I averaged about three hours of sleep on a school night, and I can easily say it was one of the most difficult experiences of my life. That sentiment is shared among my friends who regularly note that they can’t completely remember the better part of an entire four months. Even now, I don’t feel like I’ve fully recovered from the sleep deprivation and constant stress that I forced my body to undertake.

How Stress Affects the Brain

After being sent this video about the long term impacts of stress, I decided to look into reversing the negative effects of my semester and my lifestyle.

1. Meditation

Activities that give you time to be thoughtful about your surroundings is essential to staying grounded and happy. Take 20 minutes out of your day to sit in silence. Be receptive. (I hear it’s best to meditate four hours after you’ve eaten, so your body doesn’t have to focus on digestion.)

2. Exercise

Stretching your muscles and breathing deeply helps you focus.

You don't even have to leave your house. Try watching Yoga with Adriene.

3. Talk to friends from home

Speaking to people who are away from your immediate area can help you clear your head. I always find that hearing new perspectives helps me make better decisions.

4. Pick up a new hobby

Learn how to cross stitch, do some embroidery, knit a scarf. Do something you can be proud of. When you see how much progress you’ve made it’ll be incredibly rewarding.

5. Learn a new language

Download Duolingo! Get Rosetta Stone! Like new hobbies, being able to track your progress results in a boost of confidence and self worth.

6. Drink tea

Invest in some fancy tea so the next time you’re stressed, you can walk to your cabinet and focus on choosing a flavor instead of whatever you're worried about.

7. Start eating and sleeping on a schedule

When your life gets into a routine, you’ll feel a lot of relief. Remember to prioritize your health. Sometimes, sleep is worth the trouble.

8. Take breaks

Taking a walk or watching some television will help you relieve your stress. Allowing yourself space from the situation will help you clear your head. It’ll eventually help you make better decisions.

9. Hydrate yourself

Headache? Water. Stomachache? Water. Feeling tired? Water. Feeling sad? Try water. Humans relying on hydration to stay happy and healthy.

10. Play pointless apps

Dots, Crossy road, Stop!

The app store is full of random games. Distracting yourself with something fun and meaningless can help you forget about your problems...even if it’s only momentary.

11. Eat some chocolate

Treat yourself daily. Reminding yourself of your self worth is essential, and it can start with something as simple as having a piece of candy every once in awhile.

The bottom line is: love yourself even if you don't think you think you can. Everyone experiences stress, but you have to be in control of how it affects your life in both the short term and the long term.