How To Manage Stress as a College Student
College allows you to meet new people and gain new learnings and experiences. However, exams, deadlines, financial struggles, balancing studies, and other responsibilities are all causes of stress in college students.
Wondering how to manage stress as a college student or what stress-free activities for college students you can try? Check out the following article.
Get Enough Sleep
College students and stress usually go hand in hand as you try to finish your assignments, socialize, join extra-curricular activities, and perform several other tasks all at the same time. As a result, you might be sacrificing sleep and end up more stressed. End the cycle by following a regular sleep schedule. Do not use your phone or any device an hour before bedtime. Turn down the lights, and avoid too much caffeine. By getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night, you’ll have a brighter mood, a clearer mind, and a more productive day.
Exercise Regularly
Performing regular exercise can help reduce college student stress, promote better sleep, and improve your mood. Your body will release more feel-good neurotransmitters: endorphins. You don’t have to attend those tough gym sessions, either. You can exercise in different ways like taking the stairs, walking to your destination, jogging, and biking. You can also participate in stress relief events for college students, like intramural sports and group exercises.
Eat Well
An unhealthy diet will only lead to more stress for college students as energy levels are reduced. Hence, refrain from eating fast food as well as high-sugar and high-fat food. Instead, choose fresh food. Include fruits, vegetables, protein, and whole grains in your diet. Berries, avocados, bananas, oatmeal, nuts, and more can help with stress management for college students. Don’t forget to drink enough water too!
Find a Support System
How does stress affect college students? It can lead to anxiety, insomnia, and depression. Other effects of stress on college students include poor academic performance, higher dropout rates, and substance abuse. However, you don’t have to overcome your struggles alone. Talk to a family member or friend. Contact a therapist. Your school may even provide mental health support, or you can search online.
You can also express your emotions through journaling. Remember that stress and college students are usually a combo, so what you’re going through is normal. Several people are willing to help you out.
Have Some Alone Time
One of the reasons college students are stressed is that they want to try every activity or opportunity available at school. Joining all the clubs is simply not feasible, and you’ll lose focus too. Set priorities and schedule some alone time so you can recharge and remain at your best. Read a book in a quiet corner, listen to your favorite song, take a nice warm bath, visit a museum nearby, watch a movie, or go for a walk. Spending some “me” time allows you to reconnect with yourself and be inspired to accomplish things without getting stressed.
Final Thoughts
From homesickness to heavy workloads and pressure for academic success, there are several causes of stress in college students. Fortunately, you can manage college student stress by eating properly, getting adequate sleep, exercising regularly, having some “me” time, and finding a support system. College may be challenging, but it’s a fulfilling and enjoyable journey too!