According to the American Institute of Stress, the college population of today is experiencing stress at unparalleled levels. 8 out of 10 students report dealing with it frequently. Over time, that continued strain can contribute to some pretty notable issues related to both physical and mental health. It is becoming increasingly clear that prioritizing self-care during college years is a critical component of a successful higher education experience. However, that is easier said than done for busy students who are inevitably juggling a number of different responsibilities in addition to their studies.
Stress in College Students
College students commonly experience stress because of increased responsibilities, a lack of good time management, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and not taking enough breaks for self-care. Transitioning to college can be a source of stress for most first-year students. Some predictable stressful times include studying for exams, competing for admissions or internships, and trying to master large amounts of content in small amounts of time. Sudden changes, unexpected challenges, or traumatic events can be unpredictable sources of stress. Students are expected to make decisions about their careers and academic life and foster new meaningful relationships during their time in college.
Impact of Negative Mental Health on College Students
Small amounts of stress for short periods of time can be healthy, as good stress can help us motivate ourselves to prepare for exams or make positive changes in our lives. However, stress becomes harmful when it occurs for too long or is chronic – when our bodies do not have a clear indication of when to return to normal functioning. Chronic high stress has several negative effects on our bodies and brains. It can –
- Interfere with studying or class attendance
- Interfere with cognitive processes such as attention and concentration
- Contribute to major health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and anxiety
How Students Can Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care can provide a wide range of benefits. By managing their wellbeing and overall health, the student can better manage stress and the host of obligations they have to juggle. Here are some simple options that you can integrate in your day-to-day life –
- Get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night
- Focus on proper nutrition and limit sugar and caffeine intake
- Drink enough water
- Engage in relaxing activities, like taking a stroll, meditating, gentle stretching, and deep breathing exercises
- Join fun student organizations to make friends
- Sign up for a study group to make learning social
- Grab a meal with a fellow student
- Make time for activities that engage you in a fun way, such as puzzles, reading, art, and more
- Clean up your room as clutter can increase feelings of anxiety or be distracting when you need to focus
- Say “no” if committing to a request is genuinely too taxing or your calendar is full
As you work hard to advance your career by advancing your education, the last thing you want is to get bogged down by unnecessary stress. It is clear that self-care in college is one of the primary ways to balance stress and ensure overall wellness as a busy student. Making your wellbeing a priority in this way can help pave the way for continued success in your educational journey and beyond.