- Get plenty of sleep: 9 hours is recommended for college students. Many studies have shown that sleep deprivation DOES hurt your academic performance.
- Learn to relax: Find your happy place! Make yourself take a break. Your body needs it.
- Laugh: Nothing makes you feel better about yourself than a good laugh. Especially if you can learn to laugh at yourself. It’s the world’s greatest medicine.
- Do something for others: This helps you when you’re feeling down. It can make you feel included and empowered.
- Nurture friendships: Especially during the winter when it’s easy to stay inside. Texting does not count! Schedule a lunch date; you’ll be rewarded with their company and conversation.
- Avoid unneeded stress: It’s easy to become overwhelmed. Make a to-do list. Your accomplishments will carry you to finish your task.
- Make time for fun: Your body needs time to take break from your responsibilities.
- Incorporate physical activity: Aim for 30 minutes of exercise 3-5 times a week. Keeping yourself active provides mental relief in reducing and preventing stress.
- Eat healthy: Start each day with breakfast, limit caffeine and sugar intake. Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress.
- Eliminate anxiety: Anxiety comes from uncertainty
a. Take 30 deep breaths – focus on
breathing will calm you down
b. Redirect your mind – Watch a couple
episodes of a funny sitcom
c. Don’t forget to eat – Your body and
mind need energy
d. Ask yourself – Is this worrying
useful? Put a stop to negative thoughts
e. Stay in the present – Anxiety is the
fear of the future
