After getting back from winter break school seems as if it’s endless, deadlines loom, and the hours seem to get shorter by the day. Academic stress is a real and apparent problem for most students.
According to an article by New Hampshire University they state a few ways students can help eliminate academic stress. Staying present during classes and paying attention is one of the best ways to try and release academic stress before it starts. Understanding the information while students are in class and when students are able to ask teachers or fellow students questins tends to be more effective than trying to understand the information alone with the help of Google. The article also states using positive self-talk and encouragement which will ultimately help a student achieve his/her goals. Students should also be more forgiving of themselves and realize that everyone makes mistakes and that is okay.
Mrs. White a science teacher, states, “I believe that students should deal with academic stress by trying to find a hobby/activity they enjoy to take their mind off of the stress from school. I also think they should take a break from phones/social media. The hobby could be a creative activity, or even spending time with friends. This is also how I personally deal with stress.”
She has a good point, one of the best things a person can do to reduce stress in general would be focusing on what is in tht person’s control. When people look at assignments they have to complete, they can’t take on the stress that feels overwhelming. However, when people focus on things they can control, like the color of their hair or if they study or not, it’ll help them feel like things are more in control. Good self care is also a large part of how people feel, like taking showers daily, getting nails done, or getting a haircut can make someone feel more on top of things or more organized.
Junior, Brandon Seavey states, “I believe the best way to calm down from academic stress is by trying to get my work done earlier, getting sleep, or doing something I like to do like play games or go out with friends.”
He states that the best way for him to relieve stress is by hanging out with friends which is exactly what the New Hampshire University article suggests; being around people who support or encourage one’s goals or aspirations is always good for mental health. Another way to stop the stress before it starts is by not letting assignments pile up; doing assignments ahead of time can help students focus on what’s ahead of them instead of what’s behind them.
Luis Arevalo, junior states, “Instead of seeing assignments as a domino effect, look at it as if it was only one. By the time you start to see it as an individual it gets easier.”
Overall the most effective ways of alleviating academic stress are by focusing on one thing at a time and making time for oneself especially when things may be chaotic or stressful. Making a list or planning a utilizing a calendar may help keep a student organized with events and deadlines.
