How to Deal with Stress as a Student
Being a student can be one of the most exciting, yet challenging, times of your life. Between deadlines, exams, and keeping up with social activities, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes.
If you’ve ever found yourself asking “Why is school so stressful?”, know that you're not alone. In fact, it’s completely natural and normal. But, it’s also important to recognize when you’re feeling stressed so that you can take the necessary steps to help ease the pressure.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. We’ve pulled together some helpful ways to manage and reduce stress at school, so that you can thrive both academically and personally.
Why is School So Stressful?
First things first, it’s key to understand what’s causing your stress in the first place. Academic pressure, balancing work and studies, financial concerns, and even social pressures can all contribute to stress and pressure - and can, of course, build up over time.
So, why is school so stressful? Here are a few common reasons:
- Heavy workloads: Assignments, essays, and exams can pile up quickly, leaving little room for relaxation.
- Time management: Juggling studies, part-time jobs, and a social life can be tricky.
- Expectations: High expectations from teachers, family, and even yourself can feel overwhelming.
- Uncertainty about the future: Deciding on a career or post-graduation plans can add another layer of anxiety.
Recognizing these stress factors is the first step in learning how to deal with stress as a student.
Practical Tips for Dealing with Stress as a Student
Now that you know why school can be stressful, it’s time to explore different tactics to help manage stress.
- Practice time management
One of the biggest sources of stress is feeling like there’s not enough time in the day to get everything done. We’d recommend creating a study schedule, breaking tasks into smaller chunks, and prioritizing your assignments based on deadlines and importance.
If you’re known to procrastinate when you’ve got a lot on, don’t panic! We have plenty of tips for tackling procrastination which can help you feel less stressed and more productive.
- Take regular breaks
Studying for hours on end without breaks might feel productive, but it can easily lead to burnout. It’s important to incorporate short, regular breaks into your study routine. Even a 10-minute walk or a quick chat with a friend can help to reset your mind and reduce stress!
- Stay active
Physical activity has been proven to be one of the best ways to release stress. Whether it’s a morning jog, YouTube yoga, or a gym session, exercise can boost your mood and improve your concentration and productivity levels.
- Practice mindfulness and meditation
Meditation isn’t for everyone, but mindfulness techniques can help you stay present and reduce anxiety. Apps such as Calm are great for guided meditation sessions which are specifically designed to manage stress.
- Talk about it
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t keep it to yourself. Talk to someone you trust – whether it’s a friend, family member, or counselor. Many universities offer mental health resources that are free or affordable for students, so it’s worth checking with your well-being team.
H2: Create a Stress-Free Study Environment
Did you know that your study environment plays a crucial role in how you handle stress? A cluttered or noisy space can make it harder to focus, which only adds to your stress levels.
At Yugo, we create spaces that support students when they’re studying at their accommodation. Here’s some extra tips on how to set up the perfect environment for productive study sessions:
- Find a quiet space: Libraries or study rooms can be a great escape from busy dorms or shared apartments.
- Declutter: Keep your desk tidy and free of distractions. A clean space can help you think clearly.
- Use noise-canceling headphones: If you find it easier to concentrate listening to music or podcasts, or can’t control the noise around you, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver.
Build a Support Network
When you’re feeling like a stressed student, you don’t have to go through it alone. Building a strong support network can make all the difference in managing your stress levels. We’d recommend:
- Forming study groups: Sometimes tackling assignments with others can help you stay motivated.
- Leaning on friends and family: Whether it’s a phone call or a weekend visit home, staying connected with loved ones can give you the emotional boost you need.
- Reaching out to student services: Many universities have dedicated staff to help with academic and emotional support. Don't hesitate to reach out!
Know When to Seek Professional Help
It’s normal to feel stressed from time to time, but if your stress becomes overwhelming or starts to interfere with your daily life, it may be time to seek professional help – and that’s ok.
Many universities also offer free or low-cost counseling services, so if it’s time to speak to a professional, then reach out to the relevant team at your education provider. The professionals can provide you with the tools you need to manage stress and improve your overall wellbeing.
For more guides like this one, check out our Student Spill blog. You’ll be able to take a read through our tips and advice on all things studying and life at college.