Beat the COVID stress as a student
With schools and colleges closed till September this year in India, students are facing changes in the academic pattern and stressing about the uncertainty of their future. Most students are concerned about their exams and the road ahead. Whether you’re an undergraduate or graduate, it is natural to have anxiety and stress about the current circumstances. However, it is essential to beat that stress and pave way for a healthy and optimistic mind.
Here are a few techniques that can help you reduce stress:
Understand Your Concern
The key to address a problem is by understanding the problem and solving it constructively. Figure out what you are really concerned about andlist it down to get clarity about your stress factors. Recheck if those factors are reallya matter of concern or not. Sometimes, we stress over things that do not matter. Strike off the unnecessary factors and focus on addressing the set of concerns that really matter to you.
Is your concern controllable?
Understand whether your concern can be controllable or not. In a pandemic, there are scenarios you can and cannot control. It is essential for you to look at it practically and let go of things you cannot control. Stressing over it will not solve the problem. Invest your time focusing on things that you can control. Avoid thinking about unpredictable factors like what comes next, whether the number of cases rises, or whether your neighbor isn’t following social distancing. It is ideal to address your immediate concerns that can be controlled, like the sudden pause in your learning. You can enroll in upskilling online classes, study your curriculum, and discuss your doubts with your faculty members virtually.
Express your mind
At this time, it is essential to share your doubts, and concerns with your parents. Remember, they are in this with you and will be in a better position to solve your concerns. Reach out to your friends as well. Expressing your thoughts to close ones can ease the stress and may result in solutions.
Execute plans
Once you find a probable solution to even one of your problems; take that plunge and work towards it. This will motivate you to stay optimistic, focus on your goals, and believe in yourself. It can help you gain a better perspective on another set of concerns. This practice will also help you learn how to approach problems in your future professional life.
Practical Approach
Reduce reading or watching videos from random sources that can stress you about the situation. This will only make you feel more anxious. Instead, seek information from trusted sources that share practical steps for you and your family to stay protected.
Stay occupied
This is the only time you will get to do many things at your own leisure. So make the best out of it and spend your time wisely. Try something new every day, be it having good family time together, or a new training course, pampering yourself, or cleaning the clutter in your room. Always keep your mind occupied. You could even bring out your art supplies, or showcase your hobbies and skills among your friends who have similar interests virtually.
Exercise and Rest
A happy mind needs the right amount of body work out and rest. Boost your immunity by regularly exercising, eating right, and sleeping well. Be it dancing, skipping, boxing, on-spot, or jogging, exercises can be in any form.
Stay in touch
Always stay connected with your batch mates, friends, and faculty regularly. This social support will help you and your close circle emotionally. The more you disconnect from them, the more isolated you feel. Take some time during the day to connect with them virtually, share your thoughts, express yourself, and feel connected. This will definitely reduce your stress levels.
