Handling College Stress

        What causes stress for you as a student-exams, papers, reading multiple chapters in several subjects…all of the above?

    According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, a 2011 national survey shows that more than 62 percent of students withdrew from college because of mental health problems.

    How do you deal with stress-procrastinate, hang out with friends, work out, or feel like crying? You are not alone.

    Here are ten tips to help you deal with stress in healthy ways:

    •Stay organized. Use a planner, and have a folder for each class.

    •Eat a well-balanced diet and get enough sleep. Did you know that foods like avocados, yogurt, salmon, asparagus and oatmeal are good mood foods that help reduce stress? Also, students vary in the amount of sleep needed to function well, so listen to your body.

    •College is competitive, but try making studying and getting good grades fun. Possibly study with a friend.

    •Do your work little by little and don’t overload yourself!

    •Although it can be easier said than done, balance is so important to prevent stress. You need to know that school comes first and social situations second.

    •Learn to manage your finances.

    •You don’t have time to do everything, especially if you work and go to school. Make a schedule, including extracurricular activities, time for studying, and prioritize.

    •Busy schedules are likely to mean stressful days. It is important to understand how you respond to feeling overwhelmed in order to help you prepare and maintain more balance when you have a busy schedule.

    •Gain perspective on problems by discussing them.

    •Have a strong support system. There are times when it helps to vent.

    If you need additional help to cope with stress and anxiety, please contact: the Concord Counseling Center, the Concord Academic Success Center, or the Bonner House second floor.