Tips for Managing College Stress

Tertiary education can be an incredibly overwhelming experience for young adults. Many students, fresh out of high school, find themselves in a whole new world where they’re suddenly responsible for themselves. They may also relocate to new towns where they know no one, all while juggling a demanding workload and, in many cases, a part-time job. It’s no surprise that numerous students experience anxiety in such circumstances. However, not all students know how to effectively cope with this stress. If you’re one of them, here are some valuable tips to help you reduce anxiety behaviors associated with conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.

Table of Contents

Explore Hemp-Based Solutions

Managing anxiety often involves exploring various options to find what works best for you. One avenue worth exploring is hemp-based products, which have gained popularity for their potential to alleviate anxiety. While finding the right product may take some time, consider seeking advice from a knowledgeable employee at your local hemp goods store. They can provide recommendations tailored to your needs and preferences.

Utilize School Resources

Universities, colleges, and educational institutions prioritize providing quality education, but they also recognize the challenges their students face. Consequently, most institutions offer valuable resources to help students when they need support the most. Among these resources, counseling services are readily available. Some colleges even offer telehealth and group therapy sessions to accommodate students’ diverse needs. Don’t hesitate to inquire with your school about the resources and support services you might be entitled to.

Avoid Isolation

When you find yourself surrounded by seemingly happy and content college peers, it’s easy to feel isolated and believe that no one else is going through what you are. This sense of isolation can lead to poor sleeping habits, physical health issues, and increased mental health challenges. To counteract this, actively prioritize your mental health. Make time for self-care, engage in social activities, and consider volunteering with groups or charities that align with your interests and passions.

Lean on Loved Ones

Moving to a new town, attending a new school, and living in a new environment can make you feel entirely alone, especially if you haven’t made any friends yet. In these moments, technology can be a lifeline for staying connected with loved ones. Whether through text messages, phone calls, video chats, or social media, reaching out to trusted friends and family members can provide emotional support when you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed.

Practice Self-Care

Burnout is a genuine concern for many college students who must juggle the demands of studying, working, and maintaining a social life. However, incorporating self-care into your routine can be a vital tool for managing stress. Something as simple as taking a leisurely walk, cycling in a local park, or immersing yourself in a good book with a warm cup of tea can significantly reduce stress levels. Remember to make self-care a consistent practice, not just a response to high anxiety moments.

Prioritize Sleep Hygiene

For many new college students, adjusting to the college lifestyle can be a learning curve. Amidst the excitement and challenges, it’s easy to neglect healthy sleep habits. However, prioritizing sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Start by establishing a consistent sleep schedule—going to bed and waking up at the same times daily. Avoid electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime, and steer clear of caffeinated beverages in the afternoon. These small changes can make a substantial difference in your stress levels, study habits, decision-making, and social interactions.

Embrace Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness, a cognitive skill focused on being present in the moment, can help you manage stress and anxiety effectively. By cultivating awareness of your thoughts, feelings, and sensations in real-time, you can learn to accept them without judgment. When combined with meditation, this practice becomes mindfulness meditation. You can engage in this by sitting comfortably, breathing through your nose, and concentrating on your breath’s movement in and out of your body. When distracting thoughts arise, gently redirect your focus back to your breath.

Mindfulness meditation, while perhaps unconventional, has proven to be a valuable tool for numerous individuals. Over 200 studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and it has also shown promise in addressing specific issues such as smoking cessation, addiction, and pain management. To get started, you can download mindfulness meditation apps, audiobooks, or access guided meditation videos online.

Choose a Healthy Diet

It might come as a surprise, but your diet can indeed impact your anxiety levels. For instance, foods like salmon, rich in vitamin D and Omega-3 fatty acids, have been linked to the regulation of dopamine and serotonin, promoting relaxation and calmness. Research has already indicated that vitamin D, in particular, is associated with a reduction in negative mood disorders.

While fast food might seem convenient, striving to incorporate whole foods into your diet can be immensely beneficial. If preparing full meals is challenging, focus on nutritional snacks like berries, trail mix, popcorn, hummus, and yogurt.

Coping with college stress can be an arduous journey, especially when faced with numerous life challenges all at once. However, by implementing these strategies, you can take proactive steps to mitigate the impact of anxiety and stress on your well-being. Remember that seeking help and support from both professional resources and your personal network is a sign of strength and resilience.

Author Profile

Adam Regan

Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com