College is tough. Dealing with anxiety issues is tough. Putting the two together makes things ten times worse. I personally know the pain of dealing with this and can tell you that it’s no walk in the park; however, I have some good news for you. You are not alone, and there are some things you can do to make it a little easier.
Over the past few years, I have learned different coping mechanisms to help with the anxious feelings brought on by school. Whether you’re stressing over an upcoming test or that forever long list of things to do, there is sure to be something that can help you.
1. Talk About It With Someone You Trust
This one is pretty self-explanatory. Whether the person you confide in can offer helpful advice or not, it always feels better just to get it out in the open. Oftentimes, getting it all off your chest can help you rationalize the situation and see that it isn’t as bad as you first thought.
2. Write It Out
Sometimes it helps just to get all of your worries written down on paper. This way, you can organize your thoughts and figure out what it is that you need to focus on the most. Even if it is something as simple as prioritizing your to do list, it helps to get it organized on paper when your mind is overwhelmed.
3. Take a Timeout
At times when you just can’t focus, it can be helpful to take a breather and do something relaxing to clear your mind. You could go for a run or walk, read a book, do some yoga or take a nice long bath. You may think you don’t have time because you have more important things to do, but when it gets down to it, your mental health is extremely important. Sometimes the best thing you can do to help yourself get on track and be productive is to take a moment for yourself.
4. Find a Hobby
Having something you enjoy doing to look forward to can take your mind off of what is stressing you out. It can be painting, sports, taking care of a pet or even spending time with friends. Anything that brings you happiness can help to lighten the pressing feeling of anxiety.
5. Give Yourself Credit
It is important to focus on the positive things you do and give yourself credit for them. Instead of constantly thinking about what you haven’t done or what you’re so worried about doing, think of what you have done. For example, if you didn’t do as well as you expected on your latest test but you were productive and finished a few assignments ahead of time, focus on that instead. Beating yourself up over that one test grade will only cause you to put more pressure and stress on yourself for the next test. Continued self deprecation habits like this can lead to feelings of depression and escalated anxiety.
6. Accomplish a Small Chore Each Day
When your life gets hectic and you have a lot going on at once, it can make you feel behind. By doing something small like cleaning the kitchen or doing a load of laundry, you feel productive because you can physically see the results. In turn, you are able to focus on the positive fact that you are able to get something done for the day, even if it is a simple task.
Everyone deals with anxiety differently. It is important to find out what works best for you when it comes to coping with it. If none of these suggestions help, it is crucial to get professional help before it gets worse. For example, the student health center here at UTM also offer counseling services for free, which most students do not know about or take advantage of. Most importantly, just remember that you are not alone and there is help out there.
Photo courtesy of Pixabay.