Stress Management
Understanding It and Coping Strategies
Definition of stress
Stress is .......
a state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or very demanding circumstances.
Health problems caused by stress
- High Blood Pressure
- Headaches
- Your immune system can be compromised
- Sleep disorders
- Hair loss
- Fatigue/exhaustion which could lead to depression
- Digestive problems
Ways to Manage Stress
- Adopt a healthy lifestyle: Yoga, meditation, exercise, and eat a balanced diet
- Take time for laughter
- Make time for fun and relaxation-Treat yourself to something special
- Warm bath can boost your mood
- Remove yourself from the situation
- Learn how to say "no"
Stress from academic overload
Taking college courses most definitely adds stress to your life. It seems that there is always something that should be done. Constant stress can lessen the enjoyment that you get participating in your favorite activities. It is important to learn how to manage stress and develop a system of tactics to lesson your stress.
- Create a plan for your day, but plan to be flexible and allow for change.
- Have motivations to finish your work earlier than right before something is due.
- Take breaks when doing a project to break up the load.
Quick tips: For managing academic stress
1. Identify your sources of distress
2. Aim to control what you can control
3. Anticipate stressful events and plan ahead
4. Change your "mind set" or attitude
5. Change your behavior-promote your health
6. Change your situation-change your study habits
7. Learn relaxation techniques
For more information:
The following websites provide even more information about stress management:
Bucknellian Blog
http://bucknellian.blogs.bucknell.edu/2012/10/12/dealing-with-college-stress/
Queen's University
http://sass.queensu.ca/learningstrategies/topic-stress-and-coping-strategies/
Academic Success Center, Oregon State University