Build a schedule

A good schedule can save you time and reduce stress in the long term. 

Try some of these options to help:

• For each class, make a list of the tasks you must complete. Prioritize your tasks.
• Think of your tasks in terms of urgency and importance. Complete the most urgent/important tasks first.
• Anticipate demanding days and distractions. Plan how you will work through them.
• Complete one task at a time.
• Learn more strategies through the Manage Your Time tutorial.

Practice self-care

Reducing stress can start with a change in personal attitude and habits.

Try some of these options to help:

• Recognize where stress strikes you first. Do you feel neck tension or experience low motivation? Identifying signals of stress early makes it easier to try relaxation tips, and work on changing behavior.
• Learn to be satisfied with less than perfect. For example: You just took an exam that did not go as well as expected. It is out of your control now. Focus on what you can do better next time.
• Take care of your body. Eat well, sleep enough, and exercise regularly.
• Eliminate pseudo-solutions that impair your health such as sleep aids, energy drinks, alcohol, cigarettes, and vaping.
• Change your internal language. Instead of saying, “I have to…,” say “I choose to…”.

Express your stress

Hiding your feelings is often more stressful than talking about it.

Try some of these options to help:

• Recognize short-term coping methods for what they are: short-term. Use them as needed, but do not depend on them.
• Keep a journal. Observe when you are stressed, the causes, your responses, and the outcome. Identify which techniques are most helpful.
• Share your concern with a friend, family member, or counselor. Be open to feedback.
• Deal with issues as soon as possible. Do not wait for the “right time” to deal with interpersonal problems.
• Communicate assertively with others about conflicts. Be factual and use “I statements”, such as 'I feel...',  to describe your feelings.