Anxiety is extremely common among college students, and its symptoms often skyrocket during the first few weeks of college. According to a recent study, psychological distress among college students in the United States rises steadily during the first semester and continues into the second. This appears to imply that the first year of college is a particularly high time for the onset of anxiety.
Many factors contribute to the increased risk of anxiety among college students. Sleep disruption and loneliness, for example, are linked to anxiety. Academic factors such as heavy course loads have also been linked to psychological distress in college students.
If you’re a freshman or have been in college for a while, our tips on how to deal with anxiety in college may be helpful.
Take your prescription medication as advised.
If you have a prescription for anxiety medication, it is not a good idea to stop taking it, especially if it’s been working for you. Knowing how to manage your medication regimen can make all the difference. The first few weeks of college are a blur of new encounters. It’s difficult enough to remember where your classes are, let alone establish a new routine. Simply put, now is not the time to learn for the first time how to manage medications.
Knowing when to call your local pharmacist for a refill is one aspect of learning how to manage your prescription drugs. An online pharmacy, such as Canada Pharmacy Online, offers you a convenient and secure way to purchase affordable prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications. Online pharmacies are especially useful if your campus is located in a rural area or you’re simply too busy to visit a local pharmacy.
Make self-care a priority.
Self-care isn’t limited to masks and bubble baths. Everyone’s definition of self-care is different; the key is figuring out what works for you. To start, an ideal self-care regimen should include items or activities that make you feel better about yourself. You’ll be in a better position to deal with stress if you do this.
Inadequate sleep can exacerbate anxiety and depression, as well as impairing focus. This can make keeping up with your coursework difficult. To help you get a good night’s rest, invest in blackout curtains. Earbuds can also be useful in a noisy dorm or apartment.
Laughter is, without a doubt, effective medicine. According to research, laughter causes physical and mental changes that reduce stress and improve health. Watch a funny movie or old SNL skits to de-stress quickly. Make a concerted effort to laugh often, and try to find humor in stressful situations.
Talk to a professional.
College isn’t like high school, and it can be difficult to predict how tough a class will be or which program of study will be a good fit. It isn’t wrong to set lofty academic goals; however, if your course load is leaving you feeling overwhelmed and anxious, it is time to reconsider your options. The fact that you’ve been accepted into a college program demonstrates that you’ve dealt with academic stress before and made it to the other side.
You’re the only one who’s aware of your abilities. So, if you’ve taken on more than you can handle, it’s time to rethink your schedule and see if you can rework it so that you take fewer credits in a semester. To get some advice, speak with a college guidance counselor. An academic advisor can assist you in determining how much time you should devote to extracurricular activities and rest. A college counselor can also help you get into your dream school if you are still in the application process.
College students are prone to anxiety, but that doesn’t mean you have to accept it. Taking your medication as directed, taking care of yourself, and rearranging your schedule can all help. You can also contact a campus counselor for advice on coping strategies.
