Don’t stress out

The second week of classes has just arrived, and many students are already feeling the stress of a new school year. With club meetings to attend, classes to take, homework to finish and jobs to do, some students may feel like this semester is bound to be a disaster.

Balancing school, work, homework, clubs and friends is no easy task, and it causes some students to fall victim to severe amounts of stress.

According to WebMD, stress is what you feel when you have to handle more than you are used to. Sometimes, stress can be a good thing – it can push you to react quickly and work hard. But when stress happens too often and for too long, it can cause headaches, upset stomach, back pain and trouble sleeping. It can also weaken your immune system and cause you to be moody, tense or depressed.

But there is some good news – dealing with stress doesn't have to be difficult. Yes, there is a way to do it all and still keep your sanity.

•     Exercise. According to WebMD, regular exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress. If you're not really into running on a treadmill and pumping iron, try going on a walk with a friend.

•    Talk it out. Tell someone you trust what's bothering you. You could talk to a friend, a teacher, a coach, a coworker, a family member or whoever you think will listen. Sometimes it's best to just get things off your chest.

•     Write. Writing can be a wonderful form of catharsis. It can help you get to the bottom of what's stressing you out and can help you realize how to handle it.

•    Take a break. Giving yourself a break every once in a while will help you relax. So stop what you're doing and go get ice cream with a friend – you deserve it.

•     Go somewhere that puts you in a good mood. If the atmosphere of the library stresses you out, then don't study there. Study in your room or a place you enjoy on campus.
•     Do something you love. Whether it be playing a game of basketball with friends or simply taking a nap, it will get your mind off what's stressing you out.

Following these tips won't stop you from being stressed out, but utilizing them from time to time might help you survive the woes of college.  Good luck!