By Nicholas D. Williams
The weeks leading up to finals can find many students under significant stress, here are the most effective ways to deal with that.
According to a 2021 report by the Center for Collegiate Mental Health (CCMH), 1 in 3 college students experience high levels of depression and anxiety. Stress levels of this sort can often give way to short– and long-term consequences. Things like stomach health, your immune system and sleep can all be affected by this. Additionally, stress can cause an increase in chronic pain.
Studies have also shown that high stress levels can lead to substance abuse. Oxford Treatment Centers says not only does high stress lead to addiction, addiction can also worsens your stress levels.
Per Purdue University, the most effective ways to cope with stress are eating healthily, exercising, having an outlet, building a support system, having a plan and thinking positively.
They say that avoiding foods high in fat and sugar helps to equip your body with the proper nutrition it needs to fight stress. Avoiding caffeine, when possible, also helps to do this.
Regarding exercise, Purdue says it is one of the best stress-relieving activities. When we exercise, our brains produce endorphins, which are the chemicals that naturally reduce pain and stress levels.
They say that having an outlet for your emotions also can be very beneficial. Having this gives individuals a routine way to relieve excess stress effectively.
Building a strong support system around you also helps to decrease stress levels. Having a kind person to hear you, provide perspective and encourage you within your close circle can aid in coping with stress.
They say having a plan also contributes to the alleviation of stress. By implementing a set schedule for yourself, you are better able to prioritize your obligations and commitments. This allows you to see when you are free and when you are busy, which adds to your time management ability.
Doing this can induce a more positive thought process, which directly correlates to a more positive, stress-free reality.
