Being a college student can bring along many things. There are new surroundings, new friends, and stress. That’s right, stress.
There are many types of stress among college students. These reasons can vary from academic to personal. Personal stress can include anything from relationships to family life. A student trying to juggle a job and school may be stressed. Also, a lack of money can be stressful on a college student.
Academic stress can stem from difficult instructors or classes. However, most academic stress stems from procrastination. If a student puts off a particular task, the results may be poor and rushed.
Then there is career stress, according to 98six.com, a college health website. This type of stress occurs when one is contemplating exactly what career path they should take. Believe it or not, there are even college seniors who are still “undecided” or “undeclared.” The student may feel rushed and unaccomplished.
These types of stress may seem like things that can just come and go. However, stress can be easily overlooked and that can make it all the more dangerous. Stress can lead to numerous health problems, both physical and mental.
According to the American Institute of Stress, surveys and research reports over the past two decades reveal that: 43% of all adults suffer adverse health effects due to stress.75-90% of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress-related complaints or disorders. Stress has been linked to all the leading causes of death, including heart disease, cancer, lung ailments, accidents, cirrhosis, and suicide. So, as you can see, stress is no joking matter.
Don’t fret, stress sufferers. There is help available. There are many ways to prevent and relieve stress.
First of all relax, relate, and release. I know it may just sound like a catchy phrase, but it’s true. First, relax your body. Kick off your shoes and just sit back and relax. Now, try to think of only what’s bothering you. Concentrate on the exact problem. Make sure it is the only thing on your mind. Come to a resolution for this problem. And finally, release the problem. Tell yourself it is solved and all is right with the world. Sounds a little too utopian for you? Try something else.
Do something as simple as take a brisk walk or sit by a body of water and take in some fresh air and sunshine. Meditate or pray. This always works. Don’t forget to count your blessings. Think of all you have been blessed with and say these things out loud. You just may find that you are “too blessed to be stressed.”
Do you like to write? Take out a pen and paper and release all of that tension on paper. It’s much better than releasing it on someone else or surrounding object. Also, try aromatherapy techniques. Invest in inexpensive candles or an aromatherapy machine. These invigorating fragrances can work wonders.
Get out your favorite relaxing music and some candles. Get some skin soothing bubble bath or bath crystals and turn your bathroom into a mini-spa. Treat yourself to a facial and/or hair salon visit. Talk to a good friend or someone who just may know what you’re going through. They can offer helpful advice or just be that ear you need to listen.
Stress is indeed a part of life. It is one of those things that just can not be avoided. However, it is up to you to decide just how big a part it is in your life.
