Student life isn’t always smooth sailing and stressful situations may arise. Stress is created when we perceive that we are unable to juggle the different stressors being.thrown our way.
With this in mind, we created a list of the 3 most common stressors facing students using feedback received from students themselves. For each stressor, we’ve included a tip to help overcome it. These tips will also help reduce stress in other spheres of your life.
____
- Lack of time
Juggling school, work, and a social life is quite a feat. The feeling of sinking in quick sand is one we would all prefer to avoid.
Our tip: Use a tool like “Pomodoro” to manage your time and ultimately reduce stress.
Here is how it works:
Pick a task.
· Set a timer for 25 minutes.
· Work on said task until time is up.
· Take a 5-minute break.
· Repeat this process four times.
· After the fourth time, take a 30-minute break.
· Start the whole process over again.
The use of time management tools will help you maximize productivity allowing you to check more items off your to-do list, leaving you feeling more relaxed.
- Insecurities & doubts
Too often we define our own worth by comparing our failures to the successes of others. This flawed logic lies at the root of our doubts and insecurities.
Our tip: Talk nicely to yourself! Our own inner dialogue affects how we feel about our self. Be mindful and recognize negative self-talk (e.g. “I am not good enough.’’). Replacing these kinds of thoughts with positive ones (e.g.“I can do this!”, or “Take it one semester at a time.”) will help you overcome insecurities and doubts.
Being aware of self-talk patterns will help you gain perspective on how much control you have over your own mood and how this affects your stress levels.
- Relationships
Nurturing and juggling relationships requires time and effort. Rifts with people we hold near and dear can be a major source of stress.
Our tip: During conflict, rather than focusing on what others did or said, talk about you and how you feel using I-statements.
An effective I-statement must contain 3 essential components:
i. Brief explanation of the behaviour that bothered you
ii. Feeling(s) this behaviour caused
iii. The effect of the behaviour on you
For example, Instead of saying “You’re never on time!’’, say “I am frustrated (feeling) when you are late (behavior) because I feel like my time is not valued (effect)’’.
We often mistake others for mind readers who can interpret our feelings. Frustration arises when we feel we are misunderstood by others. This can cause a strain on a relationship. Avoid creating this type of stress by using I-statements. They promote open communication and reduce tension.
Lastly, remember that stress lies in the eye of the beholder. A simple change in our perception of stress can change how we feel.
____
Need a little extra guidance? A member of our Psychology Network can provide you with additional tips and tricks to help navigate the different stressors life throws your way.
Contact us at 514-337-2473 ext.0 for more information or to book an appointment. Our coordinator will be happy to refer you to the best psychologist for your needs. You can also use the confidential contact form below.
Want to know more about our student services? Check out the student wellness section of our website for more details.