Do y’all have any advice on how to handle stress? I intend to change my major soon, but I’ve got to finish this semester, and the workload+being unable to find an alone place to recharge on campus+my emotions being really unstable because of bad sleep & the work has got me very tired all the time and unable to really focus on what I need to do without freaking out.
That’s a lot to deal with and I wish you the best with all of it!
I personally do my best to recharge by doing something pretty mindless. For example, watching a YouTube video or reading. Sitting in the sun also helps me wake up a bit and feel recharged. If possible, try walking around or sitting in a place somewhat away from people - like in a garden area - with headphones on. This will, hopefully, create a feeling of isolation that might help you gain at least a little energy.
As for focusing, it may help to cut down what you need to do into smaller spaces of time. Instead of “I need to do x, y, and z through December,” look at what you need to do for the following week. An example would be, “I need to focus on studying for x class and starting research for y class.” I’m not sure if that is possible for you to do or if it works with your study habits/work schedule, but it’s something to try!
Because you specifically mentioned not sleeping well and being unable to focus, here are some sources that may help you with them:
School & Studying: tips and advice for managing school stressors
Anxiety: guides to anxiety disorders, stress relief info, panic attacks, and treatment options.
Pacifica: Daily Tools for Stress & Anxiety App & Webapp
10 Relaxation Techniques That Zap Stress Fast
Relaxation techniques: Try these steps to reduce stress
Try reading this on managing stress.
HelpGuide’s guide to stress management
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guide on stress
PsychCentral’s guide to stress management
Having trouble falling asleep? Here are some tips from followers that might help.
“Sleep Better, Cope Better”: 6 Insomnia Causes & Cures
Hopefully this answers your question. Be sure to check out our “Helpful Resources” page for more information or ideas that might help you cope with your stress at this time. If you start feeling too stressed out or like you need more help, please see a professional for guidance.
Good luck and feel free to send us a message anytime!