How do you deal with stress?
Learning how to cope with stress is really important in order to achieve a healthy mental wellbeing and make the most out of your time at university.
Here are some useful tips on how to reduce stress and anxiety at university:
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Stressed about deadlines? Plan ahead
Start by listing your coursework and exam deadlines in chronological order.
Then, make a timetable you are likely to (at least loosely) follow, allowing sufficient time to complete each task by using lectures and additional reading resources.
It’s also important to have a work-life balance to prevent yourself from burning out, so make sure you plan some time to do things that you enjoy too.
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Feeling isolated? Embrace the new
It is daunting to make new friends, especially if you’re shy or socially anxious. But don’t worry, there are plenty of opportunities to do so.
Living in student accommodation is a great way to meet new people, alongside lectures and seminars with potential course mates.
Joining societies and going on socials is also a useful way to find like-minded people.
At university, it is key to remember that everyone is in the same boat and will be as keen to make friends as you are!
Once you start hanging out with new people, you might start studying together or engaging in adventurous activities.
One of these activities could be bike riding; for city riding and light trail excursions, you can always go with a beach cruiser electric bike.
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Financial worries? Manage your money
Start by making a budget using an excel spreadsheet.
Log your monetary intake from student loans, part-time jobs and any other means of income, subtracting the essential expenses such as rent and bills you have monthly.
This will leave you with the amount of disposable income you have every month – the key then is to not overspend! If you do find yourself in financial trouble, there will be resources and advice available through your university.
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Feeling homesick? Bring home to you
Bring some familiarity into your dorm or student house through photos and mementos.
Stay in contact with your friends and family through social media and regular messaging – it’s a great way to check in.
If you’re an international student, there will be societies specifically catered to the international student community, which can serve as a means by which you still retain the cultural comforts of home.
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Burnt out? Practice self-care
Remember to treat yourself! Sometimes all you need is a bit of self-care to make yourself feel better – whether it’s through a relaxing bath or a quick pint with your mate.
Taking time out of your day to exercise is also a great way to look after your physical and mental health. Another beneficial habit to your wellness is to create a workout routine that you can maintain for a long time.
Exercising with the right equipment such as kettlebells, dumbbells or treadmills is a great way to start.
Exercising and partaking in sports is a more active way to practice self-care, exerting your negative feelings through physical means.
The same can also be said for other hobbies, such as learning an instrument or a language.
