College can be an overwhelming time. There are so many papers to write, projects to complete, and exams to pass. And let’s not even talk about how many hours of studying the average college student needs to do. Here are some tips on how to cope with stress in college.
Consider Using CBD for Pain and Stress
CBD oil has been found to help reduce stress and anxiety. It can also be used in other ways, too. For example, if achy joints are interfering with your ability to study, consider using a CBD spray for pain. CBD can also help promote better sleep and improve focus.
Take Advantage of Breaks
College is time-consuming. You don’t get a whole lot of time to yourself, which can be stressful. The good news is that college students get a decent amount of breaks to destress. Take this time to see family and friends from your hometown.
Trips for college students can also help reduce stress. Consider planning that spring break trip you’ve always dreamed of taking.
Hit the Gym
Getting in a daily workout can be the most effective way to ward off stress. When we exercise, there’s a reduction in the body’s stress hormones, cortisol and adrenaline. At the same time, mood-boosting endorphins increase.
Eat a Well-Balanced Diet
When you’re a college student, it can be easy to live off Ramen noodles and pizza. But eating a well-balanced diet can help lower stress levels by providing your body with the energy it needs to cope with stressful events. Vegetables and omega-3 fatty acids (found in fatty fishes like salmon) can help reduce cortisol levels.
Stick to a Sleep Schedule
Research has found that college students don’t get enough sleep — and this is a problem. Getting 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night is vital to feeling and performing well. In studies, students who got 6 hours of sleep or less every night for 14 days were found to perform just as poorly as those who didn’t sleep for 48 hours.
Sticking to a regular sleep schedule gives you energy and helps you earn better grades, reducing your overall stress levels.
Consider Meditating or Taking Yoga Classes
Meditation and slow breathing practices can help reduce your cortisol levels. You can do this from the comfort of your dorm room or your own home.
Most colleges offer yoga classes as a physical education requirement. This can be another great way to practice mindfulness to better cope with stress and anxiety.
Plan Fun Activities
If you’re a perfectionist, it can be easy to devote all of your time to your studies. Keep in mind that all work and no play can lead to additional stress.
Plan outings with your friends on a regular basis. That might mean going to a local bar or restaurant, seeing a movie, going to a local park, attending a local event or festival or going bowling. The possibilities for fun activities are endless.
Focus on Self-Care
It can be difficult to juggle your classes, homework, friends, family, and other obligations. This becomes a problem when you’re not making time for yourself.
Be sure to focus on self-care. For some, that might mean reading a book, listening to music or enjoying a favorite TV show. For others, it might mean visiting a local spa for a massage or getting your hair and nails done. The important thing is to do things that make you feel good.
These are just a few ideas on how to cope with stress in college. If your stress levels become overwhelming even after trying out these techniques, be sure to talk to your primary care physician to talk about potential treatment options.