It is the time of the year where stress has taken over. It is a combination of buying gifts for people, studying for finals, and completing final projects. In the process of all of this we find ourselves going mad with all of the responsibilities we have to fulfill instead of doing that we need to find a way to deal with stress. It is not okay to be miserable for the whole month, or work non stop until you are drained, we have to learn to handle everything in a healthy way. Even though this time of the year is over, they will be back in a few months. Here are a few tips for dealing with stress at any time.
1. Set Deadlines
Planning is important when it comes to preventing stress at anytime of the year. Whether you use a traditional planner, a calendar, reminders on your phone, or Google calendars, it all helps you keep track of your goals. Sometimes when you have a lot to do, you may not know where to start. Try to mark the days to do things from what’s due first to last. Mapping out all your work will help you feel less overwhelmed because you are taking it piece by piece, rather than the work all together.
2. Take a Break
There is only so much you can do before you overwhelm yourself. After 2-3 hours of homework, take a half an hour break to go eat or unwind with friends. Even though you are taking a break, be sure to be responsible and go back to your work, because you have a deadline to reach.
3. Artistic Relaxation
It sounds pretty simple, but music really can be therapy sometimes when you are stressed. Take time to just listen to calming music and color to take your mind off of all the things you need to do. Even invite some friends to come join in because they may need it also.
4. Don't Hold It All In
We all may have a lot of responsibility, but do not keep it all to yourself. Some people need an outlet to let all of their stressful thoughts go, so please let them go! Talk to a friend about what is bothering you and maybe they can help you find a solution. If a friend or family member is not available take the time to write. Write about everything on your mind and let your thoughts go free. This is a great way to de-stress, but this is free writing, not a to-do list. Write about your feelings, not what you need to do in a short period of time, because that will only stress you out more.
Although these may not work for everyone it is still worth a try. Stressing out is very unhealthy, and it is important to find ways to cope with it. Also if these do not work for you, find something you love to do and do that as a way to de-stress yourself.
