Best tips on how to manage stress for students
How can we deal with stress? It’s a universal question and one that is particularly pertinent for the student population.
Going to university is one of the most exciting – albeit overwhelming – times in life for most people. It’s easy to feel stressed out when you’re juggling the demands of academia, a busy personal life and new financial responsibilities.
Understanding stress and learning how to manage burnout is key to thriving as a student. With a few strategies, you can master the art of stress management and enjoy every minute of your university experience.
Common causes of student stress
Stress is a common experience for students. Here are some of the top factors that might make student life particularly challenging.
Academic pressure - tight deadlines and exams
One of the biggest causes of stress for students is the pressure to meet academic deadlines and perform well in exams. This type of exam stress can create a cycle of anxiety if not properly managed.
Financial concerns
Balancing studies with financial responsibilities can lead to stress. Learning how to budget for the first time and worrying about tuition, housing, and other expenses adds another layer of pressure.
Social and personal issues
Learning how to deal with stress from social relationships and personal challenges is key. Proactively maintaining friendships, taking steps to adjust to your new environment, dealing with feelings of homesickness, and learning to manage family pressures can affect a student's mental wellbeing.
How to effectively manage stress as a student
Managing stress is essential for maintaining balance and success in student life. Here are some effective strategies on how to relieve stress.
Time management techniques
One of the best ways to minimise stress is through effective time management. Prioritise tasks, use planners and break larger projects into smaller tasks. This reduces the feeling of being overwhelmed and can prevent exam stress from building up.
Tip: Try using time-blocking techniques or the Pomodoro Technique to enhance productivity. Allocate specific time slots for studying, relaxing, and other activities to maintain focus and avoid procrastination.
Relaxation and mindfulness
Stress management techniques like meditation, breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help you relax and deal with stress. Incorporating these activities into your daily routine can help you focus and feel less anxious.
Tip: Practice the box breathing or square breathing technique: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4 seconds, and exhale slowly for 4 seconds. This can help calm your mind quickly when stress hits.
Adopt healthy lifestyle habits
Exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are crucial for reducing stress. By adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can help prevent the onset of stress and anxiety.
Find support
If you're feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to deal with stress, don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a counsellor. Sometimes, talking about your worries can help relieve stress and provide a new perspective.
iQ residents can find support through iQ Feel Good and access to crisis support, expert mental health advice and events to connect with others with similar interests and experiences.
Tips for balancing study and life
To avoid burnout, it’s essential to balance study with leisure. Engage in activities that you enjoy, such as hobbies, socialising, or exercising to create a healthy balance between work and play. Knowing how to prevent stress and anxiety through balance can make a significant difference.
Tip: Schedule time for fun activities. Whether it’s going for a walk, playing a sport, or watching a movie, these breaks will help recharge your mental energy.
FAQs on stress management for students
What should I do if stress affects my sleep?
If stress is impacting your sleep, consider adopting a calming bedtime routine, such as reading, meditating, or listening to soft music. Learning how to get rid of stress before bed can help improve your sleep quality.
How can I prevent burnout during the academic year?
To avoid burnout, make sure you're taking regular breaks, managing your time effectively, and maintaining a balance between work and relaxation. It's crucial to know how to prevent stress and anxiety by not overloading yourself.
At what stress level should I see a doctor?
If you find that you're constantly anxious, feeling overwhelmed, or unsure how to get rid of stress despite trying various methods, it may be time to seek professional help. High levels of stress over an extended period can have serious effects on your health.
We understand that sometimes being a student is stressful - it’s a time when a lot of change happens and it can get overwhelming at times. If you’ve just moved to a new city alone as a new student, give our article a read for some tips on how to deal with that kind of new situation.
If you're looking for a stress-free living space as a student, visit the iQ Student Accommodation website to find accommodation options designed to support your wellbeing.
