5 Tips for Managing Anxiety in College (During the COVID-19 Pandemic)
College is already stressful but this year with the added stress of Covid, you might be feeling even more overwhelmed.
It’s hard to believe we are now a full year into this pandemic. The initial fear of the unknown might have subsided but now you might be noticing anxiety coming up in different ways. This lasting pandemic stress is becoming more common, especially among college students. It’s important to understand how to cope and when you should reach out for extra help.
As college students, the pressure to have life “figured out” after graduating can be really overwhelming. Add a pandemic on top of that, and your level of overwhelm has gotten even bigger.
You might also be feeling anxiety around virtual learning, worry about the job market, and anger about missing out on all of the fun you expected to have during college. All of these feelings are normal and valid! Remember that you aren’t alone in feeling this way.
How do you deal with your anxiety about college and the future when you’re living during a pandemic?
Living during COVID has added a whole extra layer of stress, but there are still a few tried and true tips that will help, even during these unprecedented times.
5 Simple Tips for dealing with college stress during a pandemic)
Find a routine
Just when you thought you might be getting used to virtual learning at college, you had to switch back to in person. Or just when you’re able to meet up with friends for outdoor meals, the weather turns and dining capacity is reduced. This past year has been a constant state of transition.
Because transitions can bring a lot of overwhelm it’s important to find the parts in your day that can be easily fit into any schedule. Maybe that means finding alone time to decompress after class before starting on homework, getting up before class starts to go on a run or having a scheduled phone date with a close friend or family member on your lunch break. Try looking for those moments in your day that remind you that not everything has changed.
Take things one step at a time:
When you have a million things on your plate, it can be stressful just trying to decide what to tackle first. When you start to notice your stress level rising, do your best to take a step back and remind your brain that you just need to do one thing at a time. It’s impossible to get everything done at once. When your mind feels like it's spinning and trying to focus on a million other tasks at once, just make a note for yourself, and consider that next task as “in the parking lot.” You’ll get to it when you’re ready to move on.
Take a break:
If you’re working non-stop, you’re going to get burned out! Remember that your body needs time to rest. Sometimes it helps to plan a break in your schedule, so you know it’s part of your daily tasks and you won’t forget to do it. Step away from your work for even 30 minutes to watch TV, read a book unrelated to school or take a nap! Give your mind the space it needs to rejuvenate - and don’t forget to fuel your body with water and snacks to keep you going! The more relaxed you feel, the more likely you are to focus.
Build in relaxation:
Just like it’s helpful to plan a break in your schedule, it’s also helpful to plan relaxation time, too. Regular relaxation helps your nervous system regulate so you’re more prepared to deal with the next thing that comes up. One of the ways to manage your anxiety is by focusing your attention on your breath to help you focus on the present and not get caught up on what’s to come. Everybody has a different relaxation preference, so check out our whole list of relaxation tips below:
Ask for help:
College can be overwhelming on its own, let alone during a global pandemic. It’s okay to reach out and ask for help. If you find yourself unable to calm your anxious mind, it might be a good idea to find a therapist. Therapy is a great tool to teach you how to cope with your anxious thoughts, vent about your stress and just give yourself some time that’s all about you.Covid stress management for college students.
At Compassionate Counseling St. Louis, we love working with college students. Our therapists are trained in the best ways to help college students manage their stress and overwhelm. We know that college looks different this year, and may continue to look different, so we want to help you navigate this time! If you’re interested in connecting to see if therapy is the best option for you, contact us for a consultation.
You’ve got this!
College may seem overwhelming but it’s also over before you know it. Remember to find a routine, focus on one thing at a time and take breaks. You can accomplish anything and everything, all you need is a reminder every once in a while! So, slow down, breathe and remember it’s okay to ask for help.
Lauren Goldberger is a MSW student at University of Missouri St. Louis, and the administrative assistant and intake coordinator at Compassionate Counseling St. Louis.
Are you or your child a college student that feels like they need help to manage their anxiety and stress? Compassionate Counseling St. Louis provides specialized anger management and anxiety therapy in St. Louis for kids, teens, and college students. We work in Clayton, MO and serve kids, teens, and college students throughout St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Ladue, University City, Town and Country, Webster Groves, Creve Coeur, Kirkwood, Richmond Heights, and Brentwood. You can set up your free phone screening to see if we’re a good fit for your needs right on our website.
Thumbnail image: Charles DeLoye from Unsplash