The transition from a high school student to a college-goer is not only exciting but can also be stressful. It’s a critical defining moment in one’s life when we blossom from young, sheltered kids into independent adults. With that said, there’s a lot of pressure resting on those slender shoulders – schoolwork, assignments, exams, time management, social life, mental health and maybe even the difficulties of handling a part-time or full-time role.

All this can make young adults feel incredibly stressed and anxious, which, if left unmanaged, can impact academic success. A survey by the American Psychological Association reveals that nearly 3 in 4 parents worried about stress affecting their children’s development.

In this post, we’ve rounded up some of the best ways for college students to cope with anxiety and stress at university.

It’s Okay To Ask For Help

College is an entirely different ball game when compared to high school. The stakes (and pressures) are even higher. If your course load makes you feel anxious, overwhelmed and lost, it’s time to reevaluate and ask for help. If you’re falling behind on your college assignments, you can connect with online class takers and ask, “Can I pay someone to take my online class for me?”

If you take this option, there might be times when you feel like you’re cheating or you might deal with waves of guilt. Remember, it’s not just you who is feeling overwhelmed. Thousands of college students request external help to complete their coursework on time. So, it’s okay to take a mental break and energize your drained mental batteries.

We all deserve a mental break from time to time. Once you feel that you’re back on track – mentally and emotionally – you can get back to your coursework with better clarity. Keep in mind, “It’s okay to not to feel okay.”

Prioritize Self-Care

Many students struggle to focus on themselves when living alone for the first time. Erratic sleep, a diet full of junk food and lack of exercise can wreak havoc with your mental health. You must include self-care as part of your daily routine.

• Go for a walk, jog or run
• Unwind with a relaxing meditation app
• Eat healthily – include plenty of fresh fruits and veggies in your daily meal.
• Set a consistent bedtime and wake-up time every day
• Limit caffeine and stay hydrated with plenty of water

Good self-care regulates your mood and energy levels, helping you keep stress and anxiety under control.

Make Your Dorm Feel Like Home

Returning to a room that feels comfortable, welcoming and homey is a great way to unwind after a stressful day at college. It can even help you deal with homesickness and sleep better. Here are a few ways to make your dorm room feel relaxing and calming:

• Hang up pictures of happy times
• Set up a dedicated workspace and another space for you to chill and relax
• Ensure that your bed is comfortable so that you get a good night’s rest
• Avoid clutter as it can make you feel overwhelmed and anxious
• Stock your room with your favorite treats and healthy snacks

Don’t Ignore But Take Control

The bottom line is that anxiety and stress are common among college students. But that doesn’t mean you can ignore or brush it under the carpet. Be proactive and take the proper steps to banish feelings of depression. Make new friends involve yourself in on-campus activities, reach out to your loved ones at home and connect with campus counsellors to help you tackle stress and anxiety without feeling overwhelmed or lost.