In the guide that follows, students will learn about common forms of stress encountered in college, what causes stress in the first place, how stress manifests itself in college students, meditation and mindfulness, and what to look for if a student feels he/she or a friend may be in over their head. The guide also provides a comprehensive list of resources to help students navigate this time of transition and graduate as happy and healthy adults. Show
As an incoming college freshman, experiencing life as an adult and acclimating to the numerous and varied types of demands placed on them can be a truly overwhelming experience. It can also lead to unhealthy amounts of stress. A report by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America found that 80 percent of college students frequently or sometimes experience daily stress. With a growing pressure to do it all and be successful, students must learn how to healthfully identify and manage stress points to maintain balance throughout their collegiate career. Thankfully, this guide was designed to provide insight on how to do just that. Identifying and Understanding StressorsOnce reaching college, students may encounter a multitude of stressors, some of which they may have dealt with in high school and others that may be a new experience for them. With so many new experiences, responsibilities, social settings, and demands on their time, it's normal and expected to feel overwhelmed and anxious at times; the key component is knowing how to alleviate stress in a healthful manner. In his groundbreaking 1979 book Stress and the Manager, Dr. Karl Albrect identified four main types of stress. Each of these will be delved into in further detail below.
The main stressors I've witnessed in first year students are: New living environment, first time living independently from family, and difficulty making decisions independently. Being required to manage sleep and hygiene on their own can sometimes create stress. Students are attempting to balance a heavier academic load than high school while trying to connect socially with an entirely new group of individuals as well as being in charge of their own care. The availability of alcohol, drugs and sexual freedom is often a struggle for students too. For students who have previous mental health concerns, college can be the first time they need to manage their own medication schedules as well. Do points of stress change as students move through college, and if so, in what ways?They can. Some students struggle the first semester and begin to really blossom and enjoy the process of college after that, while others do less well for the first couple of years. Stress can be re-experienced as each year brings new housing issues and academic changes. Also, changes in family outside of the school environment can impact students. Divorce, illness, death, changes in residence, pet loss are all things that students may experience during their time in school. Q. As students transition out of college and into the real world, what stress points do they need to be aware of?Many of the same points! There is the added stress of needing to know, “what am I doing with the rest of my life?” The end of college can create a significant amount of stress for students particularly if they are uncertain of a career path. I try to remind students that it's okay to not know – but important to begin exploring what they are interested in. There are sometimes feelings of loss and pressure as graduation nears. Our society puts a lot of pressure on students and suggests that college is “The Best 4 Years of Your Life.” College and the transitions in and out can be a struggle for many. Being patient with yourself, practicing good self-care, and seeking additional support when necessary will go a long way toward reducing the stress of both transitions. Q. What have you identified as the top three points of stress in college students?In the past 25 years of closely working with college students, I have found key areas of stress: The first is identity, the second is purpose, and the third is finances. Q. How can students effectively deal with stress throughout their college experience?
What Causes Stress Among College Students?Whether concerned about a tough class, missing a younger sibling, or trying to figure out their next steps after graduation, myriad causes can trigger stress in college students. While they may have experienced stress during earlier years, college stress can be particularly difficult as students are frequently trying to balance many different and new responsibilities and experiences, leaving them feeling stretched thin and moving in an unknown territory. One of the best things students can do is learn how to identify what is causing their stress and develop health ways of dealing with or alleviating pressure points. Some of the most common causes of stress are defined below.
How Stress Affects StudentsIn 2010, a national survey of college students was conducted to gain insight into stress levels and how those were affecting them both academically and personally. The results were both staggering and grim: one in five participants had considered dropping out of school due to stress and at some point had felt to stressed to study or spend time with friends. While in 1985, 64 percent of incoming freshman considered their emotional health to be above average, today that number has dropped to 52 percent. College students are feeling pressure to succeed on all fronts like never before, and it's taking a toll on their overall health. Keep reading to learn how stress affects students in various ways.
Do's and Don'ts of Stress in CollegeAs a college student, stress is sometimes inevitable. Whether it's an assignment you put off until the day before, a pop quiz, or navigating relationships, there will be unavoidable moments of pressure at some point. One of the most important aspects of adequately dealing with moments of stress is to create a healthy balance in your everyday life. By treating yourself well at all times, you won't be as susceptible to the lingering effects of stress. Here's a list of some of our best do's and don'ts when it comes to stress. Where to Find Help on CampusThe good news is that college campuses across the nation are recognizing the damaging effects of stress on academic performance and everyday life and are working to provide resources to alleviate pressure points. Some of the common resources offered at colleges and universities today include:
6 Signs a Student Needs HelpWhen students are in the throes of a heightened season of stress, they may not even recognize how badly, or immediately, they need help. If you recognize some of these signs in yourself or in someone you know, it's time to take action without delay. 1. Suicidal Thoughts 2. Compulsive Drug or Alcohol Abuse 3. Social Withdrawal and Isolation 4. Physically Violent Outbursts 5. Uncontrollable Crying or Emotional Outbursts 6. Uncontrollable Crying or Emotional Outbursts 7. Help a Friend
Additional Resources for Student Stress |