Look familiar? At some point in a student's college career, students tend to make an enemy and its name is stress. Typically, the stressors of college life are trying to get the best grades, peer relations, family relations, romantic relationships, lifestyle, and physical appearance and health. Personally, I have experienced all six as an undergraduate at Arizona State University. Whether it was competing for a spot in the nursing program, my EX-boyfriend cheating on me, getting tasks done for my sorority, struggling with time management, or stressing out about NOT working out because I have "no time". With all these obstacles thrown at us it is normal for us to become stressed, but how many of us actually do something about it?
Well I am here to inform you all that stress is dangerous because it may lead to chronic stress. Chronic stress is a psychological, physical and mental problem that affects the body and the mind. It is a serious medical condition which leads to fatal complications if not treated on time. A person suffering from chronic stress may experience insomnia, anxiety and frustration, sexual dysfunction, headache, or develop digestive problems. Research shows that an extreme amount of stress can contribute to heart disease, depression, and obesity because of over-consuming of comfort foods. Clinical research consistently links chronic stress with elevated cortisol levels and diabetes. In addition, poor coping skills are seen in the rising cases of adolescent self-injury, including cutting and eating disorders.
We are not doomed I promise but I encourage everybody to cope with it. Here are eight techniques to cope with chronic stress.
- Substituting negative self-defeating thoughts with self affirming ones
- Adopting assertive behavior to increase our self esteem and reduce the likelihood of perceived stress
- Journal Writing
- Art Therapy
- Humor Therapy - Laughing is good for the soul
- Creating Problem Solving
- Prioritize, schedule and execute daily responsibilities
- Social Support Groups
So enjoy life and take these techniques with you to lead a less stressful life. And just remember, "You are a miracle, you can do anything" - Wise message from my AP History teacher in high school.
Stress is a huge condition that affects all college students at some point or another; I really enjoyed this topic. I do try to laugh, think positively, and prioritize tasks that I need to do in order to stay in my right mind but it still gets hard. I used to be a dancer so that was another outlet for my stress and any other emotion that I had but that sort of left after graduating high school; it sucks not having that release anymore. Thankfully I have a fiancé that is very supportive in everything that I do so we are each other’s support group as well as our families, but good luck with the rest of your schooling.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed this post, as it applies to everyone. Personally, I have a hard time finding things to relieve stress. I liked that you included ways to cope with stress, I use art therapy and humor, which I know a lot of people do not usually associate these two with stress coping techniques. I really do believe finding a creative outlet, whether it be drawing, painting, playing an instrument, or writing, helps us to feel calm and takes our minds of off stressful situations.
ReplyDeleteThis post made me feel much better about my current situation. As an undergraduate student at ASU, I too have felt the intense stress of competing for the nursing program, trying to keep my scholarship and maintaining a healthy body and sound mind. This is extremely challenging for any 20 year old to balance, but I really appreciate the tips on how to cope with stress. It is important for people to know that they aren't alone in how they feel. Different types of therapy you mentioned, like art therapy and social support groups, are probably the most effective for me.
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