We hear the warning signs all the time as we go from point A to point B on campus. He is stressed out over a test, she is anxious about getting that assignment done on time. The college environment is an environment built upon stress and anxiety. Besides the six cups of coffee the average college student consumes before their 8 AM classes, it’s the only thing keeping them going. Some stress can be beneficial to the individual, helping push them to new goals or encourage change and growth. However, when someone experiences stress for an extended period of time, the risks can be great.
So what does that mean for the college students who think they can always do more? When working full time, going to school, being involved in five different campus activities, working out four times a week and doing an unpaid internship aren’t enough? This is where stress and anxiety come into play. Stress tells you that you always have more to do and that you are unable to get it all done. Anxiety is the constant internal reminder that everyone around you is able to handle the stress, and there must be something wrong with you if you aren’t able to handle it.
I have a few words for those students: stop being so hard on yourself. College is difficult, no matter what the smartest kid in your most difficult class says. Everyone struggles, deals with the stress the best they can and fights off the anxiety they feel inside. Not everyone suffers from stress over the same things. Some people find the most difficult thing about college to be the academic demands, others find it to be living away from home, and there is always the stress that comes from managing your finances. Stress comes from many different places and can be difficult to manage.
The best way to manage all of this stress? Check out a few tips:
1. Get plenty of sleep.
When you are not getting enough sleep, it impairs your ability to perform academically and makes it difficult to get through the day.
2. Have a stress outlet.
This could be anything that helps you relax. It can range from getting a hobby, going out with friends or possibly working out/playing sports. There is no wrong answer for what makes you feel better.
3. Think positive.
Before you roll your eyes, there have been numerous studies that show positive thinking improves your physical, mental and emotional well-being.
4. Engage in relaxation techniques.
While this is like thinking positive, these are actual techniques that relax your body and mind. Try slowly counting to ten, meditating or playing with any stress-relieving toy you can buy at the store.
5. Talk to someone.
One of the biggest lies your anxiety tells you is that you are alone in what you are experiencing. I can guarantee that you are not. Taking the time to talk to someone–using them as a sounding board–may be all you need. Having someone who listens and cares helps so much. And don’t forget to be there for your friends as well when they just need to vent.
College is a stressful time in anyone’s life. Don’t let your mind bully your body. You will have negative thoughts from time to time, and that’s okay. If there is one thing you should remember it’s that everyone suffers from stress and anxiety at some point. What makes all the difference? How you handle it.
