MANAGING STRESS
University can be a source of major stress for many students, especially coming up to exam season. I’ve compiled a list of three simple tips to make sure stress doesn't get in the way of enjoying university.
TIME MANAGEMENT
Time management is, in my opinion, the best way to reduce stress at university and an all round good life skill to have. It allows you to prioritise urgent tasks and see what can wait. It can also help you see how much free time you have to allocate things to do besides studying. Giving yourself free time is vital to reduce stress, fill this free time with things that make you happy and allow you to clear your head from university work. One of the best ways to practise time management is to use a planner to create a weekly schedule and stick to it. There are many online planners available and if that isn't your thing you can always resort to a paper planner, here are some of my favourites:
https://www.papier.com/wonder-50491
EXERCISE
With most students spending the vast majority of their time staring into a laptop or phone, hours can slip by without any movement. Exercising can reduce stress by releasing endorphins (happy hormones), reducing adrenaline and cortisol (stress hormones) and improving sleep. Universities often offer large discounts to students for their gym facilities, but if the gym isn't your thing, try some at home workouts or simply go for a walk or run. Fresh air is important!
SOCIAL SUPPORT
University can be a lonely experience, you may feel like you’re the only one who doesn't know what they're doing but a simple conversation with your friends will prove that everyone is in the same boat. Stress is a natural reaction to new surroundings or added pressure and everyone will be feeling the same. Talking to your friends about how you’re feeling can help reduce stress by validating your emotions. If your still feeling overwhelmed with stress after speaking to them, here are some links to online resources:
https://studentspace.org.uk/support-services/webchat-support https://www.studentminds.org.uk/examstress.html
https://studentspace.org.uk/support-services/text-message-support
So, by implementing time management strategies, staying active and seeking social support, students can better navigate the pressures of university life. Remember, it’s normal to feel stressed, but with the right tools and support, it can be managed effectively so you can enjoy your university years.
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