STRESS is an inevitable part of student life. Learning to deal with it effectively as a young adult will help you in all future situations you encounter, and as you will learn in this website, it can even help you in some situations.

This informational guide will help you learn about the symptoms, the benefits and consequences, and strategies to cope with stress.
 

Physical Symptoms

• Headache
• Chest pain
• Muscle tension or pain
• Change in sex drive
• Upset stomach
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue

Emotional Symptoms

• Anxiety
• Restlessness
• Sadness or depression
• Lack of motivation
• Irritability or anger

Behavioural Symptoms

• Angry outbursts
• Drug or alcohol abuse
• Overeating or undereating
• Tobacco use
• Social withdrawal

Positive effects of stress

From our resources, it is found that most positive effects from stress is primarily short term.

Motivation

Students tend to be more motivated to do and completes the task.

Working faster and harder

Students tend to work at a quicker pace and put more effort into the task compared to when they are in a relaxed state.

Better performance (varied)

One interviewer reports having better performance when he or she is under stress.

Memory is enhanced situation not information

It is tested that memory tends to be enhanced when subject is under stress, however this tends to be situation based memory, eg. Remember an argument between you and a friend then remember information for a quiz.

Increased levels of motivation, attention and arousal

Relaxation

• Alleviate your bodily tension by taking a deep breath, and getting up to move around and stretch out your body.
• Taking a short break from studying to partake in a recreational activity such as watching TV or exercising can be helpful, however; you must be sure to regulate the length of your breaks.
• For example taking a 5 minute walk outside to get some fresh air, clear your mind, and release pent up energy can go a long way.

Positive Thinking

• Reframe your problems to focus on the positives of the situation and rationalize the negatives; eg. how important is this outcome really going to be in the long run?
• Imagining yourself succeeding in any given situation can do a lot to alleviate stress as well as increase self-efficacy about succeeding in whatever it is that is causing you stress
• Conversely, take some time to reflect on things that bring you pleasure in life, unrelated to the stressful situation, such as your own positive qualities and advantages. This will help keep things in perspective as well as relax your mind and make your body more at ease. Preparation and

Concentration

• When possible, preparation in advance to best prepare oneself for the situation can make it much less stressful at the time.
• Time management is key; when things are left to the last minute is when stress levels are often highest.
• Attempt to handle the task at hand as effectively as you can; don't worry about things that are out of your control, rather focus on what you do have power over.
• Break down the task or situation into smaller components and focus solely on completing that facet of the problem. A good strategy is some arranging a chronology starting with the easiest subtasks first to get you going.

Ask for Help!!!

• If you are stuck on something, academically related or not, talking to others about your problems can make a huge difference.
• Academic help is always available; approach someone knowledgeable on the subject and have them explain it to you instead of spinning your wheels trying to understand it yourself.

UBC Learning Commons

For tips on how to manage stress and information about resources for you visit: http://learningcommons.ubc.ca

Counseling Services at UBC

For someone to talk to and potentially resolve areas of negative stress in your life:
Located in Brock Hall, Room 1040

UBC Student Services: Health and Wellness

Information and external resources about managing stress effectively:
http://www.students.ubc.ca/livewelllearnwell/index.cfm

Stress and Depression Check-Up

An online assessment that examines your stress levels and currents moods then provides immediate feedback and options to minimize negative feelings. Part-time faculty and staff of the UBC Faculty of Medicine give the feedback from each individual assessment:
http://www.veritagroup.com/sdc