5 proven stress prevention and reduction strategies for busy college students

Learning and implementing these life skills will help you stay motivated and succeed during life’s tough moments

In today's fast-paced world, daily stress can sometimes overwhelm us; it has become an inevitable part of our daily lives. However, here are some important life strategies to help you manage stress, which is crucial for our long-term mental and physical well-being.

One powerful approach is to establish a daily routine that includes moments of relaxation. A consistent schedule with some breathing room can provide a sense of stability, helping to manage stress levels. Also, one very important part of an organized schedule includes making sure you are getting enough quality sleep every night.

Engaging in regular physical activity is important for overall health, but it has also been proven to be an excellent stress reliever. Exercise releases endorphins, which act as natural mood lifters, contributing to an overall sense of well-being. To add more regular exercise to your routine, consider planning some S.M.A.R.T. wellness goals.

Another key strategy is practicing mindfulness and meditation. These techniques help to center the mind, promoting a state of calmness and reducing stressors.

Creating and maintaining a strong support system through social connections is vital. Sharing thoughts and concerns with trusted friends or family members can offer emotional relief and help you decompress from life’s difficulties. It’s great to make new connections, especially in a new and exciting environment like college.

Learning how to say 'no' when necessary is a crucial life skill. Setting realistic boundaries helps you to prevent becoming overwhelmed and ensures a healthier balance in life. This can sometimes be a tricky skill to master, but it is worth the effort to find the balance that works for you.

In conclusion, reducing stress requires a multifaceted approach that addresses various aspects of our lives. By incorporating these strategies into our daily routines, we can create a foundation for a more balanced and stress-resistant lifestyle. It is essential to prioritize self-care, embracing the importance of mental well-being in our journey toward a more fulfilling and harmonious life.

Check out DIY Wellness for helpful tips and tools on stress and self-care, body image and nutrition, time management, sleep, and finance and budgeting to help you get organized, confident and ready to live well at ASU.

More details on these strategies can be found at ASU’s Mindfulness Center.

Uranus Asefi is an Online Immersion Global Launch student at Arizona State University. Her background includes completing medical school and practicing as a medical doctor. In addition to clinical work, Asefi had the privilege of being a lecturer at a reputable medical university. 

Her academic focus on the English language aims to enhance her communication skills and broaden her horizons. In the Global Launch program, she improved her English language skills and learned to speak and read more effectively, and the program has been instrumental her refining my academic writing.