The last two years have been difficult for everyone; according to the World Health Organization, the COVID-19 pandemic increased the prevalence of stress, anxiety, and depression by 25% worldwide. Stress is a common part of daily life, and when dealt with responsibly, it may help us stay motivated and focused. However, when stress levels become excessive and are not appropriately handled, they can have a harmful influence on mental health, particularly among students. In this post, we will address the impact of stress on students’ mental health as well as numerous techniques to properly manage stress to preserve excellent mental health.
As a student, the pressure to perform well in exams, meet deadlines, navigate social and familial expectations, and compete with peers can all contribute to stress. When stress levels become too high and are not managed properly, students may experience a range of mental health problems, such as anxiety, sadness, and burnout. Additionally, research shows that high levels of stress among students can lead to dangerous behaviors such as drug and alcohol misuse and smoking. Therefore, it is crucial to learn effective stress management techniques to maintain good mental health and avoid negative consequences.
Stress can trigger a range of mental health problems for students, with anxiety being one of the most common issues. Anxiety is characterized by feelings of unease, fear, and concern over something that may have an uncertain outcome. Students experiencing anxiety may also have symptoms such as panic attacks or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Another prevalent mental health issue among students is depression, which can have a significant impact on academic achievement. Depression can cause difficulties with sleep and focus, leading to problems with academic performance. It is essential for students to seek help when experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression and to learn effective coping strategies to manage their mental health.
Students must learn how to successfully regulate their stress levels to preserve healthy mental health. There are a variety of ways to assist students to manage their stress, including deep breathing, meditation, good time management, and yoga. Never feel shy about taking help from mental health professionals. Seeking assistance from a mental health professional can also be beneficial for students. Furthermore, avoiding unhealthy coping techniques such as alcohol and drug consumption can aid students in avoiding stress-related health issues. Students can create a healthy, balanced lifestyle that supports their social, emotional, and academic well-being by embracing stress management practices.
This is the first article in a series about Stress Awareness Month (April) to help students understand the negative effects of stress and how to overcome them. The influence of stress on physical health will be discussed in another article.
