Are you a college student or heading to college later this year? Do you have a friend or relative who’s about to start their college adventure?
College is more than just academics. It’s a chance to get to know yourself and become an independent adult. It’s also the last step before adulthood, where students prepare for a career and figure out so much about themselves.
Most colleges and universities make a big deal about how wonderful their student life is. But not everyone finds their new experience fun. And for some students, unique college stressors like being away and living with new academic expectations can create a lot of stress.
In fact, college and stress have a long-standing link. So if you have millennial anxiety or worry about what college will mean for you or someone in your life, check out these tips for managing stress in college.
1. Work With a Career Advisor and Academic Advisor
Going to college is pretty much mandatory if you want to enter most good-paying professions. But so many students struggle because they don’t know what career suits them.
Your goal should be to know what you’re good at and choose your major accordingly. Tell your academic advisor and career advisor about your hobbies and interests, not just your academics.
If you still aren’t sure of a major after taking a few general education courses, it’s okay. Your advisors can help you take strengths and personality evaluations and guide you to a good choice.
2. Be Choosy About Friends
For most people, the best part about college is the friends you make and all the adventures you’ll get to go on together. But it pays to be choosy about your friends.
The last thing you need is to have people in your life who create drama and problems. Avoid anyone who drags you down and gets you into situations you don’t want to be in.
3. Know When to Say No
It’s tempting to take on too much at any stage of life, but in college, you have your grades and your future career on the line. It’s okay to say no to doing too much.
You owe it to yourself to take care of your mental and physical health. Get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise. And if you still aren’t sure how to manage stress in college, get support from the pros.
4. Get Support
Sometimes college students develop stress-related problems that are best dealt with using help from professionals. For example, eating disorders in college are somewhat common, but they can be overcome with the right treatment.
There’s no need to struggle or try to survive stress by yourself. Most college counseling offices have expert staff who know how to help. Take them up on their offer!
Managing Stress in College: It’s Within Your Reach!
If you’re a serious type and “stress about stress” for yourself or someone else, know that managing stress in college is doable! If you’re a student, follow these tips and remember not to isolate yourself from help.
If you know a student, remind them to take care of themselves and don’t shy away from getting the support they need.
For more articles about health, fitness, and other timely topics, check out the rest of our blog!
