February 15, 2021

7 Ways to Beat Stress When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

Your university years can prove to be more stressful than you may have expected. A little stress is always a good thing, because it keeps you on your toes. It’s normal to be stressed since you’re going to multiple classes, meeting new people, and trying to live independently for the first time in your life. 

However, too much stress can negatively impact your academic performance, physical health, and mental wellbeing. Stress can stem from many sources, including financial struggles, parental pressure, and academic expectations. There’s no foolproof way to remove stress from your life, but here are some things you can do to cope with it.

 

Set realistic expectations about what you can and cannot do.

Understand where the stress is coming from. More often than not, it comes from a hectic schedule or a full load. Having too much on your plate leads to stress, so learn to say no instead of overcommitting yourself.

 

Confront the stressor head-on. 

One of the best ways to manage your stress is to deal with it directly. If your schedule is freaking you out, consider cutting back on your activities. If your roommates are giving you a headache, talk to them directly about your issues.

If things don’t work out even after a serious talk, consider transferring to another student room for rent. Ottawa has plenty of accommodations near campus where you can spread out comfortably.

 

Create a space for yourself.

One of the advantages of living in a student apartment is that you can set up a nice desk for yourself where you can study and get things done in peace.

However, if your roommate is noisy and doesn’t want to leave you alone, you can always find a favorite nook in the library or discover a trendy coffee shop to hang out.

 

Take the day off to unwind.

A change of routine or environment can be a great way to clear your head. You can go on a road trip with friends, visit a nearby museum, or explore new places outside campus. Spending time on a new experience gives you fresh perspective and makes you more productive once you’re ready to get back to work. 

 

Set aside alone time.

Alone time allows you to detach yourself from societal and peer pressures. It gets you back to your own values and interests. You can go for a solitary walk around campus, do a quick coffee run, or work on a hobby.

 

Have a place to vent.

It’s important that you get to talk to someone outside of school or work who understands your situation. Venting allows you to let all the stress out and gives you a cathartic way to process your feelings.  

 

Get help.

Stress is inevitable at university, but it doesn’t have to dominate your life. If you feel that the stress is becoming too much to bear, you’re experiencing panic attacks, or having a hard time sleeping, you may wish to contact your school’s student services department or seek professional counseling.

 

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