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.
--
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.
