The Relationship Between College Students And Caffeine | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Student Life

The Relationship Between College Students And Caffeine

Why college students drink coffee and how it effects them determines if they have a healthy relationship with caffeine

102
The Relationship Between College Students And Caffeine
https://pixabay.com/en/photos/drink/?cat=fashion

It is officially the beginning of the semester. Everyone is figuring out the rhythm of their schedule and trying to enjoy the calm before the storm. Soon enough the work will start piling up and the lines for Starbucks coffee will be almost out the door. But are these lines the signs of a caffeine consumption problem in college?

There are a few things to discuss and consider before trying to answer that question. People often forget that caffeine is considered a drug. Caffeine binds itself to the receptors in your brain meant for adenosine, the chemical that makes you feel sleepy. This basically allows you to maintain focus and feel more energized.

Due to these effects, University of Florida college students often drink coffee so they can work hard and play hard. Your professors and bosses expect a lot out of you because you go to a well-respected university. The expectations of your friends can be high as well, as they may want you to go to dinners and parties frequently. After being pulled in so many directions, it really isn't surprising that so many students resort to drinking coffee. However, there is a major difference between using coffee to help you stay on your A game and using coffee to replace or push off sleep. In my opinion, where you fall in that situation on most days, determines if you have a healthy relationship with caffeine.

Additionally, how caffeine affects you personally determines if you should drink coffee at all. There are lots of symptoms you can experience from having more than about 3 cups of coffee a day, which is technically the maximum amount of coffee a person should drink. You can suffer from headaches, dehydration, irritability, an upset stomach as well as other symptoms. Personally, I know I experience these symptoms way before the third cup of coffee, but I know other people who do not have problems until then.

Since the answers to these two questions majorly differentiate caffeine consumers, you cannot look at a length of a coffee line and make the judgment that this is evidence for all college students having an unhealthy relationship with caffeine. Yet, I can say that many people I know do not have a healthy relationship with caffeine. Thankfully, this is a problem that can be fixed. Improving your time management and respecting your limits are the best ways to help you get more sleep in college. This way you do not have to depend on caffeine. Needless to say, this does ask for a fair amount of effort and self-evaluation, but it will absolutely be worth your time when you find yourself becoming a happier, healthier person.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

19290
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

8139
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5933
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

5136
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments