For many people, college brings a myriad of new experiences, from meeting new people to starting the constantly changing path to your future. These experiences can sometimes be stressful and overwhelming for most people. As a freshman in my second semester here at Illinois State University, I have learned not only new school subjects but also new ways to cope with stress. The first step to coping with stress is knowing the symptoms. According to the UFL Counseling & Wellness Center, some common symptoms include muscular tension, colds or other illnesses, high blood pressure, indigestion, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, headaches, backaches, and depression. These mechanisms listed below may not work for everyone, but I think and hope at least one will relieve some of your stresses.
1. Try out Meditation and Yoga
According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 80 percent of college students admit to frequently or sometimes experiencing daily stress. Mediation allows you to focus completely on your mind and body. Focusing on breathing helps you steady your breath and calm your nerves. The campus gym holds various yoga and meditation classes that can teach you proper ways to breathe and meditate. Cancel out all the noise around you and find your center. Here is the fall 2017 weekly schedule for Illinois State University Recreation Center Classes.
2. Sleep!
A study at Georgia University has shown that college students should be sleeping about 6 to 10 hours per night, while most on sleep 4 to 6 hours. As college students, we sometimes forget how important sleep is. Staying on top of your school work load is important so you won’t have to stay up and cram, losing those precious hours of shut eye.3. Workout
The campus gym is free to all Illinois State University students. Take advantage of their equipment and various classes. Remember to always stretch before and after your workout. I enjoy going to the gym because it allows me to shut off my brain and focus on something else other than the stack of homework stacking up in my dorm…
4. Listen to music
Putting on a pair of headphones and drowning out outside noises can sometimes be the best way to unwind. Close your eyes and listen to the words. Focus on the singer's voice or tone. Try to push all your focus onto a single aspect of the song.5. Eat more fruits and vegetables
Eating healthier can help your energy levels. If you feel proactive you will be able to get more done and take away factors that may cause stressful situations.6. Step away from your school work
Taking breaks will benefit in the long term. This allows you to stay close and focused to work but also allows you to stop and alleviate some stress.7. Watch a funny movie
Laughter is the best medicine. Letting out stress through laughter is a positive outlet that allows you to enjoy what you’re doing while also relieving that weight and pressure from your shoulders.8. Spend time with your friends
9. Unplug
By turning off your electronics you shut off communication and allow yourself to focus on life in general, and it closes off distractions so you can focus on homework and your social life.
10. Keep a journal
Write down your feelings if you don’t want to talk to someone about them. Putting words down on paper allows you to clear your mind to make room for new information. A study done by Harvard Medical School explained how “the process of writing may enable them to learn to better regulate their emotions.”11. Scream!
When all else fails, screaming into your pillow is the age old trick to relieve stress.College can be one of the most stressful periods in your life, but don’t forget there are ways to manage your stress, and you can work to be a less stressful, happy version of yourself. Take time for yourself, even if it's just a few minutes out of your day jamming to your favorite song; your mind and body will thank you.
