We all like to think we’re on top of things, but chances are that sometimes being a uni student will be stressful. You might be trying to balance your social life, class schedule and part-time job, or you could be an online student trying to juggle your family, your career and a degree. It’s OK to admit that it’s not always smooth sailing, and it’s also OK to ask for help.
With that in mind, here are some tips to help you stay on top of things during your studies:
Stay active
On the #BetterInRed challenge you were encouraged to complete some form of physical activity for at least 30 minutes, three times a week. Exercise releases endorphins, which are chemicals in your body that make you feel good. You might be amazed how energised and positive you can feel after a short walk in the fresh air, or working out some pent-up frustrations in the gym.
Be mindful
Mindfulness is a concept that has gained more attention over the past couple of years. It’s about much more than just colouring books for grown-ups though. Mindfulness is all about self-awareness and observation, and is drawn from mindfulness meditation. It’s a great way to take some time out, relax and refocus. CSU has compiled some resources to help you try mindfulness.
Get connected
They say a problem shared is a problem halved, and having a solid social network at uni can do just that. If you’re stressed about an assignment or exam, knowing there are other people feeling the same way can be very reassuring. Whether you’re studying on campus or online, tools like the discussion boards on your Interact2 sites can be ideal for sharing your concerns and getting advice from your lecturers and other students.
Be informed
Understanding the signs of stress in yourself and knowing how to tackle them can help you get on top of any problems early. Keep an eye out for workshops to help you handle stressful periods, like exam time. You can also get some practical advice and access resources about handling stress.
Ask for help
You can ask your lecturer or subject coordinator for extra time to complete an assignment, or talk to an Academic Learning, Literacy and Numeracy (ALLaN) adviser to improve your marks. There’s financial assistance, grants or even emergency loans if unexpected expenses are worrying you. If you need someone to talk to, there’s free and confidential student counselling available on campus or by phone, or for urgent assistance, contact your local crisis counselling service.
If you feel your stress is more than you can manage on your own, remember everyone at CSU wants to help you succeed.
