When students feel stressed, five steps to combat anxiety and depression

 

Studies show that when students feel stressed, their academic performance decreases. There are many possible contributors to stress in the classroom, from not getting enough sleep to worrying about a family problem. It is hard for students to learn and pay attention if they are overwhelmed by the day's events. To be successful, there need to be ways for both teachers and students to cope with stress.

"It's important for teachers and students alike to be aware of how they're feeling. When this happens, it should be a cue that everyone needs to take a step back and take some time out," says Dr Mike George, director of student mental health support at the University of Ottawa. George talks about the five steps adults can take to reduce stress in students.

Step 1: Recognize what causes stress

"We often don't realize that we're stressed because it's something that has become part of who we are," said Dr Steve Joordens, a psychology professor at the University of Toronto Scarborough campus. "Students need to recognize that they're stressed and not let it become part of their identity." We all know that getting help with your homework can be a struggle, especially when you're not sure where to go for the best quality and value.But on interent its an easy way to find professional research paper writing services online.

Step 2: Avoid stressors

The easiest way to combat stress is by avoiding the things that cause it. "Sometimes this means setting aside time during the day or week for yourself, such as taking a walk after work or meditating before bed," said Joordens. "It's important to set boundaries between your friends, family, work and school life."

Step 3: Take time for yourself

The third step is to take some time out of the day for simple things that you enjoy. Relaxing activities such as listening to music or watching Netflix can help people unwind after a long day at work.

Step 4: Be realistic with expectations

It is important for people to set reasonable expectations for themselves. It can be discouraging when a student feels like they are not getting anything done. "This is often where procrastination comes from," said Joordens. "If you push yourself too hard, you're likely to get burned out and won't be able to perform well in the long run."

Step 5: Get help when you need it

If stress begins to affect the way people live, there are ways to get help. Joordens suggests taking on small tasks at first and then building on that foundation. For example, if someone notices they are feeling anxious every Monday morning, they could make a point of attending an hour-long yoga class every Saturday and gradually add to that time throughout the week. "It takes hard work and dedication," said Joordens.

"It's easier to take control earlier on rather than later," said George. "The longer we wait, the harder it gets."