MANAGING STRESS IN COLLEGE
College life can be full of excitement, but it can also bring on stress and anxiety. For many students, it is their first time being completely on their own. This newfound independence and new opportunities can be both exciting and overwhelming. Integrating your academic and personal life can be challenging and stressful. It's important to remember that you're not alone in this experience. Here are a few tips to help manage stress in college:
Be open and vulnerable with your friends: It's normal to feel scared about opening up, but your friends are most likely going through similar feelings. By sharing your experiences, you can deepen your connection and feel validated. Your friends may provide insight into how they have navigated similar challenges or provide comfort and support when you are going through a difficult time.
Participate in school activities: Many schools offer a range of activities outside of academics that can be a fun way to relieve stress. You can visit the arts center, join clubs and groups, or participate in club sports. Engaging in outside activities can be a fun way to enjoy what your school has to offer and give you a little break from the stress of academics.
Find a routine: The newfound independence can be overwhelming, and it may be difficult to learn how to manage your time effectively. Creating a routine and scheduling your time can be an effective way to ensure you're carving out time for all of your responsibilities and also time to take care of yourself.
Organization & Writing It Out: Writing out to-do lists, a calendar, or a planner can be helpful in organizing yourself and your time. By doing so, you will have more security so that you won't forget your responsibilities and feel accomplished when they are complete.
Take Breaks: Take breaks to rest and recharge. Give yourself time for a quick walk and eat meals at the dining hall instead of at your desk. Finding small pockets of time to take a break will help provide relief from constantly being on the go.
Remember that these techniques may not eliminate all your stress. Seeking professional help can improve your mental health. At Mental Performance by Scott, you can learn tips to better manage college life, gain knowledge about yourself, and learn how to cope with stressors.