Stress is not a new problem that college students deal with. However, more students are experiencing stress in college than ever before. With this epidemic on the rise, it is important for students to know the harmful effects that bad, long-term stress has on their body and how to manage their stress. First, there are two types of stress: eustress and distress. Eustress is known as “good” stress. It is minimal stress that motivates an individual to accomplish projects and things they need to get done. Distress is known as “bad” stress and can affect an individual’s health in many different ways. Distress can affect an individual’s body, mood and behavior.

Stress management techniques that a student can use can be as simple as they want to make them but should be something that the individual enjoys. Examples of how a student can act to manage their stress include, but are not limited, to physical exercise, practicing relaxation techniques – deep breathing, mindfulness and yoga – spending time with family and friends and participating in a hobby. If a student is not sure on whether stress is causing their symptoms or they have tried different stress management techniques and they do not see an improvement in lowering their “bad” stress, it would be beneficial for the student to see a doctor or counselor to help and identify resources they can use to help manage their stress. 

The university has multiple resources students can use to help reduce their stress. A few services the university offers include working out at the REC Center, talking to a counselor at the Counseling Center and visiting the Health Center. The university also has beautiful landscapes and oak trees all around campus that students can enjoy while they take a walk outside to reduce their stress. We encourage students to try these different services on campus to find just the right stress management fit for them.

For more information on everything the university has to offer, please visit Southeastern’s webpage. Follow different departments on social media to keep up with what is happening around campus.