School can be challenging even for the most relaxed students. For many it’s the first time living away from family, friends and home. But there are things you can do to keep the worry at bay. Student stress can be caused by a number of factors, including:
This doesn’t have to be a grueling gym session – you simply need to get your heart racing, for example by going for a brisk walk or a bike ride.
‘Exercise can be hugely beneficial for the mind as well as the body,’ says Glyn Williams, senior well-being practitioner at the University of the West of England (UWE), Bristol. ‘Regular exercise releases endorphins – feel-good hormones that can help to reduce tension and allow the mind to focus on something other than worries and concerns.’
‘If you’d like to get moving but are struggling for inspiration see what activities are available at your institution and get involved with clubs and societies. There’s usually a huge array of activities on and off campus.
A relaxation technique originating in Buddhism, mindfulness is becoming an increasingly popular coping mechanism for those tackling stress or anxiety. Used by clinicians to improve patients’ physical and mental health, it can significantly lower stress levels. It is most often practiced through deep breathing or guided meditation.
One of the most accessible ways to practice this is through the use of free smartphone apps such as The Mindfulness App, Calm and Head space. A number of books are also available on the subject.
Isolation can have an extremely negative impact on your happiness. Accepting that you may need some help is often the first step to feeling better.
Speak to your friends and family – they know you best and care about you the most. What’s more, studies suggest that socializing with a friend just once a week can reduce your stress levels and improve your mood as much as therapy or counselling.
People often get stressed when they feel that they’re running out of time to complete something. However, simple time management techniques can help you to feel relaxed and focused.
Try creating a written work schedule, breaking your tasks down into manageable chunks and planning accordingly. Divide your work into urgent and non-urgent tasks, and important and non-important tasks.
Maintaining a sleep routine is of paramount importance to mental health and managing stress. Taking time to relax before you go to sleep can help the quality of your sleep. Try to go to. sleep at the same time and wake up at the same time each day. Seven to eight hours is recommended.’
Stress can often interrupt your sleeping pattern so try to do everything you can to relax yourself before going to bed. Take a bath to wind down, watch your favorite TV show or sit quietly and read. Avoid screen time as much as possible before bed, so switch off laptops, phones and tablets at least an hour before going to sleep. Contact the Allen School today! We are enrolling now for our spring classes and cannot wait for you to become part of the Allen School family. Visit
www.allenschool.edu to learn more.
-Allen School
