You may have been told that college is supposed to be the best four years of your life, that these years will be full of self-discovery, fascinating academic opportunities, new friendships and relationships, and of course freedom. However, for many students, this whirlwind of new experiences can feel overwhelming, stressful, and even anxiety-provoking. Unfortunately, most high schools don’t provide a crash course on how to navigate the transition from the structure of high school to the freedom and independence that comes along with college life. Below are some steps you can take to reclaim and find joy in your college experience.

Identify the Source of Stress

It is essential to first recognize where these stressors are coming from. Balancing rigorous academics, extracurriculars, and part-time jobs while maintaining a social life can be overwhelming and contribute to feelings of anxiety.

Set Aside Time for Self-Care

It can be easy for self-care to fall through the cracks when balancing everything that goes along with being a student. Self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming, and can even be as basic as ensuring you are eating nutritious meals, limiting screen time, getting enough sleep, and moving your body throughout the day. Small acts of self-care can make a big difference in the long run.

Build a Support Network

Finding your community can be a powerful source of support and belonging. Identify friends, family members, professors, or mentors you can rely on. Many of them are probably also experiencing stress or have experienced the pressures of being a student at some point in their lives.

Time Management

Developing organization and time management skills can make all of the tasks and responsibilities in your life feel a little bit more manageable. Consider breaking larger tasks into smaller steps and realistic goals. Try using a physical planner, online calendar, or spreadsheet to keep track of all of your assignments.

Develop a Toolkit of Relaxation Techniques

Incorporate exercises that work for you into your daily routine, such as meditation and mindfulness, breathing exercises, yoga, going for a walk, listening to calming music, or journaling.

How do I know if I’m experiencing stress and should reach out for help?

  • Decline in academic performance and/or frequently missing deadlines
  • Feeling overwhelmed by tasks and chronic procrastination
  • Struggling with time management and organization
  • Frequent muscle tension, headaches/migraines, digestive issues, and/or illness
  • Changes in sleep, diet, and exercise
  • Feelings of fatigue, irritability, anxiety, or worry

Therapy can be especially beneficial for college students as it provides a supportive and affirming space to navigate challenges and stressors. Therapy is like taking a course on self-exploration. Through mental health services, students will receive emotional support, gain new insights and coping skills, and build resilience to navigate the complexities of college.

While experiencing some stress is a normal part of the college journey, it does not have to define your experience. By prioritizing your mental health, employing coping strategies, and reaching out for help when you need it, you have the power to redefine your college experience.