As college begins after the summer break, students face a host of stressors. The term `stressed-out’ is something that most students use to describe their state of mind as they are particularly vulnerable to stress. The right amount of it is believed to sharpen the minds and reflexes and also motivate learning, but excessive stress can affect an individual’s health. Sleep disturbance, constipation, a lack of concentration, anxiety , moodiness, nervousness, migraine, diarrhea, fatigue, sweaty palms, high blood pressure, hair loss, eating disorders are among the common symptoms of excessive stress.
“These days, students are complaining of significantly higher levels of stress-related problems. This seems to be mostly due to peer pressure, failure in academics and relationship problems. A lot of these youngsters take the wrong way to relieve their stress by getting into habits like drinking alcohol and smoking,” says psychologist Lata Hemchand. Here are different ways to manage stress…
Exercise regularly : One of the most effective ways to reduce college stress is to work it off by exercising for at least for 30 minutes every day . Whether you’re walking, cycling, swimming, dancing or practicing yoga, get your blood pumping as it not only keeps you fit, but also helps you get over stress and stay focused.
Sleep well ; It is important to get a good night sleep for at least seven hours, because a sleep deprived body is prone to more tension and stress.Developing a good sleep pattern helps you stay alert, focused and positive throughout the day . Also, avoid using your cell phones; and drinking caffeine or energy drinks before heading to bed.
Breathing : At times, when your stress levels are rising, take a deep breath, hold and exhale. Repeating this a few times can bring down your tension levels, can help you relax and increase efficiency .
Eat healthy : It is essential to eat healthy and at regular intervals. Including nuts in your daily diet can give an instant boost, and thus energize the body as well as increase concentration.Drink at least three to four liters of water because dehydration causes fatigue and headache.
Seek emotional help : When you are stressed, talking things out to a trusted friend or a family member can help, as it has an immediate effect on reducing tension.
