There is no doubt about it: many college students feel the effects of stress. Here
are some easy to use stress management techniques to help you with your stress and health.
For many this is the first time on their own away from home. Often the college is
far from home and nearly everyone is a stranger.
On top of that, there are often financial struggles, relationship issues, academic
challenges and just the day to day problems of young adulthood in general.
Not all stress is bad
If we had no stress, not much would ever get done! That adrenaline boost you feel
when you need to perform in sports, or that helps you finish a paper, or meet any challenge is a
positive form of stress.
Once the challenge has been met, the short-term burst of energy subsides and you
return to a more balanced state. This is healthy and helps you cope with life.
Chronic stress is a killer
Chronic stress is when you are not able to return to a relaxed state once the
challenge has been met. This drains your hormonal system and weakens your immune system. Now the
stage is set for mental and physical health problems.
Chronic stress occurs in primarliy two ways:
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The stress is relentless. A bad relationship, a class that is
just too difficult, or a schedule which is too demanding can all cause chronic stress.
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Poor ability to manage stress. Have you ever noticed how some
people just fall apart under stress while other people glide right though? Often the difference is
knowing stress management techniques, even if it is not a conscious thing.
A holistic approach to stress management
A holistic approach means that you take every aspect of your life into consideration
when seeking a solution. Rather than merely taking an anti-depressant to treat symptoms, effective
stress
management techniques for college students will enable you to live a more balanced, healthy and
productive life.
Some of the components of a holistic approach are
