Anxiety, how students can overcome it

Feeling overwhelmed? How students can take control of their anxiety

Between academic pressure, social changes, and the demands of a new environment, anxiety is a common experience for students. If you've ever felt a racing heart before a presentation or struggled to focus due to constant worry, you're not alone. The good news is that you have the power to manage these feelings. This blog post will explore practical strategies for understanding and coping with student anxiety, helping you build resilience and get back on track.

Understanding the root of student anxiety

Anxiety is your body's natural response to stress, but for students, it can become persistent and overwhelming. Many factors can contribute to it, and understanding your "why" is the first step toward managing it effectively.

• Academic pressure: The drive for high grades and the fear of failure can be major sources of stress.

• Major life transitions: Moving away from home for college or transitioning to a new school can bring feelings of homesickness and anxiety.

• Social fears: Worrying about fitting in, making friends, or being judged by others is a common type of social anxiety.

• Lifestyle changes: Poor sleep, an unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.

• Fear of the future: Constant worry about what comes after graduation can be a source of stress.

Practical strategies for managing anxious moments

Once you understand what's triggering your anxiety, you can start building a toolkit of coping strategies. Different techniques work for different people, so experiment to find what works best for you.

On-the-spot techniques for calming down:

• Deep breathing: Slow, rhythmic breathing can calm your nervous system. Try the 4-7-8 method: inhale for four counts, hold for seven, and exhale for eight.

• The 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique: Name five things you can see, four things you can feel, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. This shifts your focus to the present moment.

• Challenge negative thoughts: When you start to spiral, ask yourself if the thought is truly helpful or realistic. Replace self-defeating statements like "I can't do this" with encouraging affirmations like "I can handle this".

Long-term habits for building resilience:

• Prioritize self-care: Ensure you are getting enough sleep, eating well, and exercising regularly. These fundamentals are crucial for regulating your mood.

• Practice mindfulness: Regular meditation can help you observe anxious thoughts without judgment, reducing their power over you.

• Find a creative outlet: Journaling, drawing, or playing music can help you process your thoughts and emotions in a healthy way.

• Build a support system: Don't isolate yourself. Talk to trusted friends, family, or a counselor about your struggles. Remember that you are not alone in this.

• Manage your workload: Break large assignments into smaller, more manageable steps. Creating a study plan can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed.

When to seek professional help

While these strategies are effective for managing everyday stress, sometimes you need more support. It's okay to ask for help. Shore Crest Counseling is here to help. Our Compassionate therapists provide a safe space to talk and help you develop personalized coping skills.

If you're struggling with severe anxiety or feel it's interfering with your daily life, please consider reaching out to us. You can also contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988