6 Helpful Ideas to Manage Stress in College

Like it or not, stress is a part of the college experience, but it doesn’t have to be all consuming. Learning how to handle stress in a healthy way can make all the difference during those tense times when you find your assignments mounting, or life’s other obligations are getting you down. Your well being matters.

See the following for some helpful tips to keep healthy as you navigate the stress of college.

exercise

Hitting the books might be good for the brain but being sedentary all the time is bad for the body and soul. It’s important to make space in your schedule to get active, pump your heart rate and boost your serotonin levels to help manage your stress. It feels good to get moving and your focus, mood and coping skills will improve in the process.

Remember your passions

Sometimes with the busyness of college life, we forget to pay attention to the parts of ourselves that make us unique; your love of writing, your passion for bonsai tree maintenance, or maybe the satisfaction of making a three point shot on the basketball court — whatever your passion may be, it’s important not to lose sight of those simple joys as it is a source of stress relief and a reminder that you are more capable than you might feel.

Take a break

You are not a robot (though some days you may feel like one). Between your classes, homework, and other life obligations, you may find yourself overwhelmed with all that needs to be done. Though it may feel counter-intuitive, those are the moments when taking a break can be the best thing can you do for yourself. Schedule time to read your favourite book, take nap or go for a crisp walk so you can come back to those obligations with fresh eyes and new energy.

Connect with others

Spending time (virtually or in-person) with those who make you feel comfortable, valued, and heard can relieve a great deal of stress, even if you don’t talk about what’s troubling you.

Eat, hydrate and sleep

When life gets busy, we often put off these important life-maintaining necessities and tell ourselves we’ll get to it later. Our brains run on what we put in our body and a lack of sleep and poor nutrition, and dehydration reduces our capacity to achieve our goals. Think about your food choices, drink water and go to bed early. Your brain will thank you for it.

Seek Support

It’s okay to not be okay, but you do not have to face it alone – there are resources to help. Check out: NSCC Wellness and Counselling, HealthymindsNS or mywellnessplan.ca for additional support.