Starting University is a very challenging time, especially for students who have moved far
away from home, family and friends. With a new social network to establish,
a tight budget, and starting their studies, it's easy for stress to take over
and negatively impact their health.
Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes a constant, it can lead to unwanted physical, behavioural, and emotional changes.
Numerous Studies have found that around 75% of UK students experience emotional distress
while at university, with stress being the most common complaint among 65% of students.
Some of the common causes of stress among university students include:
- Academic demands
- Being on their own
- Financial responsibilities
- Exposure to new people
- Potential temptation for Substanceabuse
- Awareness of their sexual identityand orientation
- Future career planning
It's important for students to recognise the symptoms of stress, including:
Cognitive Symptoms
- Problems with Memory
- Unable to Concentrate
- PoorJudgement
- Negative Outlook
- Anxietyor Racing Thoughts
- Constant Worry
Emotional Symptoms
- Moodiness
- Irritability
- Sense of Fear or Panic
- Agitation
- Overwhelm
- Feeling of Loneliness or Isolation
- Depression or General Unhappiness
Physical Symptoms
- Aches & Pains
- Diarrhoea or Constipation
- Nausea, Dizziness
- Muscle pain & cramps
- Chest Pain, Rapid Heartbeat
- Loss of sex drive
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Disrupted Menstrual Cycle
- Weakened immune system e.g., frequent illness or infections
Behavioural Symptoms
- Eating more or less
- Sleeping too much or too little
- Isolating yourself from others
- Procrastinating or neglecting responsibilities
- Using Alcohol, Cigarettes, or Drugs to relax
- Nervous Habits e.g., nail biting, pacing
To manage Stress, it's important to try and understand what might be causing it.
Try to adopt a healthier lifestyle, spend time with friends and on hobbies, practice
relaxation and breathing exercises, and get organised and plan your time as much as possible.
If stress becomes overwhelming, students can talk to a Friend, Tutor, University
Support Services, Accommodation Support Advisor, or Family member for support.
By implementing these Stress Management tips, and putting emphasis on the 4 Pillars underlying Health,
Students can build resilience and retain Energy and Focus during their University journey.