College is full of new experiences, new people and new responsibilities that can fill and even possibly overwhelm your typical daily schedule. For many students, this transition is seamless and even enjoyable. Unfortunately for many others, these changes can cause anxiety. When anxiety becomes overwhelming, there are several methods that can help students overcome the associated effects.
Counseling
Psychological counseling is one way for college students to deal with anxiety while going to school. A trained counselor or psychologist can help you work through issues and give you the tools necessary to reduce your anxiety levels. Many colleges offer free counseling services to their students through student services.
Exercise
Exercise is another way to relieve the symptoms of anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals of the brain, and it may also help take your mind off the things that may be stressing you out. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that you get at least 150 minutes of exercise each week.
Relaxation Techniques
Practice relaxation techniques when you feel the onset of anxiety. They can also help reduce its effects. For example, deep breathing, meditation and prayer can all be used depending on your personal preference. Other relaxation aids such as massage therapy, yoga and aromatherapy may also be beneficial.
Sleep
Getting adequate sleep is also important for combating anxiety. Studying and socializing can leave college students up late through the night only to have to be up for classes early in the morning. This can cause many students to sacrifice the needed sleep the body needs to handle stress and anxiety during the day. Aim to get at least seven to eight hours of sleep each night to help combat the symptoms of anxiety.
Medications
For serious cases of anxiety, your counselor or doctor may recommend medications. Common medications used for anxiety include serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, monoamine oxidase inhibitors, or MAOIs, buspirone and beta-blockers.
