Managing Stress
Do you ever feel as though you just can’t handle everything: your class work, your part-time
job, the demands of family and friends? If so, you are probably feeling pressured or are under
stress.
Common Symptoms of Stress
being short-tempered
listlessness
feeling rushed
headaches
having difficulty concentrating
queasiness, indigestion
losing weight
worn-out feeling, fatigue
How to Reduce Stress
- Manage your time effectively to help reduce stress by allowing you to feel in control.
- Eliminate stressors. Once you have identified a source of stress, eliminate it if possible.
If, for example, a part-time job is stressful, find another that is less stressful.
- Review your accomplishments to give you confidence that you can handle the work
ahead.
- Avoid simultaneous life changes. College is a major change in lifestyle and is stressful
in itself. Therefore, try to avoid additional major changes such as starting a new job.
- Establish a daily routine to eliminate the need to make numerous daily small decisions.
- Seek knowledgeable advice if stress becomes an insurmountable problem.
- Get physical exercise because exercise often releases tension, promotes a general
feeling of wellness, and improves self-concept.
- Eat nutritious meals. During rushed, stressful times such as exam days, nutritious food
can help you keep calm and think more clearly. In general, try to eat fruits, vegetables,
and protein; avoid refined sugar, large amounts of caffeine, and high-calorie, lownutrient
snacks.
- Get adequate amounts of sleep because sleep allows the body time to replenish energy
and to recover from the daily demands placed upon it.