- Write down a list of things that are stressing you out right now and how you are feeling about each of them.
- There is a lot to be involved in at Grinnell; identify what you want to prioritize.
- Time management can relieve a lot of stress. Try using the Microsoft calendar associated with your email account.
- Do you need help with relationships? Ask a professional, like a counselor in SHAW, about how you can improve communication skills with those who are important to you.
- Practice gratitude in any moment. What are you grateful for in your life?
- If you cannot let go of this stressor, accept your feelings are valid and let it go for a few seconds.
- Breathe deeply and ask yourself if the things stressing you right now will matter in a few weeks, a year, or 5 years from now. If not, let them go.
Otherwise, to alleviate the stressor, it will have to be addressed.
Prioritizing self-care will enhance your ability to handle stress. Schedule time for sleep, eating, exercise, relaxation, fun, and social connection. When you are feeling stressed, ask yourself “What choice will help me move forward for the long-term not just the short-term?” You can start by talking to someone about it. You can also write about it. Let it out through movement, Turn it into music or art. And have a good cry. Let your mind transport you to a relaxing place in the world. Think of a memory of or watch/listen to something funny. Do progressive muscle relaxation (see Sleep). Do yoga or go for a walk. Massage your neck and shoulders.
You can get guidance in addressing the situation from the myriad of resources available through SHAW.
Daily Habits
- Try not to repeat negative thoughts to yourself; instead use neutral or positive thoughts.
- Let others know when their actions make you uncomfortable and take responsibility for your own feelings.
- Don’t try to make too many changes or accomplish too much at once.
- Set manageable process goals.
- Despite the immediate relief, caffeine, alcohol, cigarettes, and misuse of drugs all contribute to stress.
- Go to bed early enough that you can sleep until you feel refreshed. Look to the sleep section of this page for further details.
- Have fun and laugh with breaks of movies, books, puzzles, etc.