As we start a new semester, looking at all of the upcoming coursework can be extremely overwhelming. Therefore, learning some effective strategies to cope with stress is a good way to give yourself a fighting chance to rock this semester!
Study small portions at a time.
Doing a small amount of studying every day can help you feel on top of your course load. It can also relieve the stress the night before a test when you would usually be cramming for the exam.
Exercise regularly.
Exercise releases endorphins in the body to help you feel happier and less stressed.
Get enough sleep.
Being sleep deprived can trigger your anxiety and cause it to be worse than usual.
Find a study space.
Separating the space that you live and the space that you work is a good way to trick your mind into being focused when you're in a designated work space.
Find support.
We are all in this together! Reach out to others on campus to study or work out with. It is also important to stay connected to family members back at home to help you through stressful times. There is no need to cut yourself off from the outside world.
Don't overload yourself.
Try to choose activities that help your day, not hurt. If you find that you are overburdened by things, try to choose a few that you can disconnect from in order to be fully engaged in your academics.
Avoid using alcohol to relax.
While it might seem like a good way to unwind, your stresses will just come flooding back in when your buzz subsides. Not to mention, alcohol consumption could lead to many dangerous outcomes that could increase your stress levels.
Start a journal.
Writing is a good way to unwind, as well as set future goals and reflect on your day.
Don't worry about something that is not directly affecting you.
This is not an excuse to procrastinate, but stop causing yourself to spiral into an anxiety attack over your final exam in 10 weeks. You got this, just one week at a time!
Breathe.
Well, do it! Take a second to take a deep breath and remember that you worked hard to get here.
You are going to kill it this semester!
