The latest Counseling Center post about managing stress
Check out the information below about the latest Counseling Center post about how to manage stress. For more information, please contact the Counseling Center directly.
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Stress is a part of everyday life. However, there are certain situations that can cause stress specifically for college students.
- The first year of college brings the stress of something new.
- For returning students, there could be the stress of taking more challenging classes in their major and finding the perfect internship,
- Some students are managing classes and work while being active in one of UMBC’s many campus organizations.
- Outside of college life, sources of stress can come from family and world events, such as natural disasters or the political climate.
- Right now, COVID-19 has an impact on our everyday life, as well as academics and work.
But not all stress is bad.
- A healthy level of stress can serve as a motivator.
- Positive stress, called eustress, can help you focus and improve your performance on activities such as tests, playing sports, or interviewing for a job.
Stress can turn into a major problem if it is not managed properly. It can have serious consequences on your school performance, body, and mind.
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased worrying
- Trouble completing assignments on time
- Not going to class
- Short temper or increased agitation
So what can we do about stress?
One useful method in managing stress is Mindfulness.
- Mindfulness is the practice of being fully aware of where you are and what you are doing.
- If you have never tried mindfulness, the best way to start is by incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine.
- Activities such as walking, eating, or breathing can be done mindfully. Here is a 7-minute mindful practice that can help you to reduce stress.
- The Counseling Center is offering virtual 30-minute mindfulness practices Monday – Friday, 12 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., beginning April 22. Check out their myUMBC group for updates and to access the Webex link.
- NAMI COVID 19 information and resources
- Free online mindfulness resource
The Counseling Center offers additional resources to help you cope with stress.
Free phone apps are also available.
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Posted: April 21, 2020, 7:32 PM