Overcoming college stress: positive thinking wins a degree

The last semester to end a college career should be full of excitement and new memories. It is the last time to “go out with a bang,” to do everything you wanted to do and to live every day without regrets.  However, mine so far is full of uncertainty, deadlines and hardships. 

Typical college student agenda

Juggling personal life to school life to career life is difficult. There can be too many hats to put on, but we have to deal with this at some point. The time is now.

Depression is very real among students, including myself. “The number of students on psychiatric medicines increased more than 10 percentage points over the last 10 years.” This article discusses in depth how severe it really is.

So how can we overcome all of these obstacles and become the superman or superwoman we want to be?

First: Manage your personal life.

We can’t overcome any problem until we address our own mind, body and spirit. Feed yourself before you feed others. Do the things you love and don’t be distracted by all of the temptations to take on the world.

• Exercise daily to physically feel better and to release stress.
• Invest in your faith, whatever that may be. Spiritual peace does wonders to relieve anxiety and worries.
• Simply, take care of yourself. Take a bubble bath, read a book and do what you love.

Second: Completion is the goal.

Unless you have slacked off the past three years, you have earned wiggle room. Complete your assignments on time and study, however, don’t forget you are almost at the finish line. All you ultimately have to do is pass the rest of your classes. So, relax.

Finally: Think positive thoughts.

As my counselor says, fill your emotional cup. Next time you look in the mirror and don’t like what you see, stop immediately. Reverse your thoughts. You are a beautiful, unique person and can do anything you truly want out of life. These positive thoughts are what separate the joyful from the disheartened.

Remember, you only have one semester left. You can do it.

This time in our lives can hit us hard with overwhelming issues, but we can accomplish them by simply remembering these key guidelines. Stay positive.

How has your college experience affected your life?  Are you, or were you stressed out on a daily basis?  Please leave your answers and opinions below.


Related articles:

http://loveyourbody.nowfoundation.org/whatyoucando.html
http://www.npr.org/2009/10/26/114055588/a-push-for-colleges-to-prioritize-mental-health?ps=rs
http://www.self-improvement-advice.com/2012/01/top-7-stress-management-tips-for.html