Student Stress

What is stress?

Whether you are sitting your A-levels, studying in university or are currently in further education, there are many things which can cause you to feel extra stress. Whether it may be upcoming exams, settling into a new area, thinking about the future or worry about meeting deadlines - you are not the first to feel this way. 

Stress is a normal reaction, designed to help you deal with challenging situations. It can be good in small amounts to push you to finish your work and fulfill your potential. However, if you become too stressed and feel you cannot manage, it can lead to anxiety or other health problems and may affect your day to day life. 

There are many ways to help deal with the stress of student life and the resources below may be able to help you, but please remember, you can always contact us. 

stress

Signs of Stress

There are lots of possible signs of stress.

Stress can make you feel:

  • irritable
  • anxious
  • like you cannot enjoy yourself
  • worried a lot of the time

You may start to:

  • have sleep problems 
  • find it hard to concentrate
  • bite your nails, pick your skin or grind your teeth
  • snap at people
  • feel short of breath or breathe very fast

Organisation

  • Have a diary and record when your upcoming deadlines are
  • Keep a timetable of your committments (either physically or on Google or Apple calendar)
  • Do not over commit 

Relaxation

  • Find time to do the things you enjoy 
  • If you're in university - join a club or society where you can meet other students
  • Plan a meal or evening out with friends
  • Buy a new book and read in a cafe 
  • Exercise

Coping Mechanisms

  • Learn to recognise when you feel more stressed
  • Find a way to relieve your stress (this is different for everyone)
  • Talk to someone - a friend, family member or academic tutor 
  • Try relaxation, and breathing exercises
  • Avoid drugs, alcohol, or lots of caffeine

Useful Resources

Young Minds - advice on dealing with exam stress

NHS Mental Wellbeing - a series of audio guides

Student Minds - UK's student mental health charity

Nightline - student-run listening and information services, open at night when other services on campus may be closed.