If you're a student, you've probably noticed that you're experiencing stress that stems from many different areas. College can be an exciting time of growth and personal development, making new friendships and being intellectually challenged, but with these positive experiences also comes the stress from many changes taking place at once. Worries about finances, relationships and academic performance can all have an impact on your physical and mental state of mind. If you feel like you can't manage it all on your own, seek advice from your campus counseling center.
Finances
Living on your own and potentially having to be responsible for your income, food expenditures, book costs and other living expenses can be extremely stressful. If you're trying to balance a student job with classes and friendships, you may feel like you have no time for yourself. According to Morehouse State University's Life Enhancement Office, many students do not even have time for a part-time job, making the financial pressure much higher. Worrying about student loans and financial aid, monetary support from your family and balancing your checkbook on your own are all possible causes of financial stress.
Academic Performance
Worrying about your academic performance can cause you to experience stress symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia or changes in your appetite and overall mood. According to Morehouse State University, many students have poor study habits and cram last minute studying in the night before exams. You may also experience test anxiety whether or not you feel you're well prepared for the exam. Other factors such as an active social life or involvement in student activities may interfere with your academic performance.
Relationships
It can be difficult to make new friendships when you're balancing many things on your plate. Likewise, it can be challenging to find the time for existing relationships. You may experience stress from peer pressure or feel stressed by issues with your boyfriend or girlfriend. According to the University of California at Berkeley's University Health Center, having adequate social support can actually be a way of managing stress. Finding the right balance is one of the challenges of student life.
Poor Nutrition
According to Morehouse University, many students suffer from poor nutritional habits exacerbated by convenience food, fast food and microwavable snacks. You may have never needed to cook for yourself prior to college and you may not have the time or desire to learn. You may choose the foods that are quick and easy, but this may have a negative impact on your physical and mental wellbeing. In addition, while it's no shock that drug and alcohol use escalates during college years, this can interfere dramatically with other areas of your life if it's not kept under control.
