STRESSED TO THE MAX
Stress in and of itself is not “bad”. There is “good” stress that is experienced as exciting, pleasant, and can be beneficial. It actually improves performance, motivates, focuses energy, and sharpens the mind. It usually lasts short-term, and is vital for mental and physical health. It is negative stress that can be harmful since it drains away your energy reserves. Unlike “good” stress, it does not fade after a short while but continues to build. It can lead to physical and emotional health problems.
As a university student you will probably live with one or more roommates. You’ll have to meet new people. The workload will be heavier than high school, and you have to make decisions about courses and major. Some students also juggle a job while studying. All of these can contribute to feeling stressed out.
HOW TO TELL WHEN YOU’RE STRESSED
Dry mouth |
Difficulty concentrating |
Nightmares |
Overeating/under eating |
Chain smoking |
Alcohol/drugs abuse |
Fingernail biting |
Clinched fists |
Talking too much/too fast |
Mental confusion |
Headaches/backaches |
Stomach knots |
Irritability |
Racing heartbeat |
Desire to run away |
Frequently tired |
Sleeping too much/too little |
Decreased productivity |
WHAT TO DO
- ASSERTIVE COMMUNICATION: Express your feelings and opinions in a timely manner while maintaining respect and consideration of others.
- ADEQUATE SLEEP: Get enough sleep to feel refreshed in the morning. Most adults need 6-8 hours of sleep each night.
- EXERCISE: Practice a vigorous exercise for at least 20 minutes a day.
- TIME MANAGEMENT: Organize your time. Decided on priorities and work from the most important to the least.
- UTILIZE OTHER RESOURCES: Recognize your limitations and seek help from others. Learn about the student services resources on campus from handbooks and directories.
- PROGRESSIVE RELAXATION: Tighten and relax each major muscle group over the entire body. Notice the difference between tension and relaxation.
- MEDITATION: Close your eyes and block your thoughts that produce anxiety. Focus on a favorite serene location, communing with God, a mantra, or your own breathing, for example.
- ABDOMINAL BREATHING: Inhale slowly and deeply through your nose. Pause, holding each breath, for a count of four. Breathe out fully and slowly, pushing the air out; repeat 4-5 times
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