Studying abroad comes with excitement and expectations for international students as they look forward to having a wonderful study experience. However, one thing freshmen rarely expect is to suffer stress while in school. Since this is almost inevitable, this article aims to proffer stress management strategies for freshmen.
The goal of studying abroad is to acquire a quality education. One of the best ways to achieve this is to devise ways to manage the stress that comes with studying in college. To do this successfully, you need to:
1. Identify the stress
Identifying your stressors is the first step towards managing stress because it enables you to take proactive measures. However, identifying your stressors can be challenging sometimes especially when the sources are hidden. For instance, worry/anxiety about your academics, heavy workload, adjusting to different foods, weather, culture, time management, etc. When you know what makes you feel stressed, you’ll be able to find viable solutions.
2. Alter the stress situation
After identifying your stressors, the next step is to find viable solutions so that you don’t get overwhelmed. You also need to take proactive measures so that your health doesn’t get affected negatively.
Practical steps you can take include finding ethnic food stores/restaurants to find foods that cater to your dietary needs. Spread your courses across the semesters so that you don’t have too much to carry in one semester. Similarly, find outfits that are in consonance with the weather of your host country so you’ll be comfortable, amongst others.
3. Get creative
There are many different things freshmen can do to eradicate stress while in school as international students. You can draw, colour, paint, or play a musical instrument. Read a novel/magazine, engage in a hobby, listen to music, watch a movie/comedy, take a walk, ride a bike, take a soothing bath, etc.
4. Engage in physical exercise
You can handle stress by engaging in physical activities like exercise. You can also engage in sports and other fun activities. This will improve your health and help your body relax. It will equally make you more cheerful and optimistic about your study experience.
5. Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Students who encounter stress are encouraged to live on healthy diets. A well-nourished body copes with stress better than a malnourished body. This is because maintaining a healthy lifestyle keeps your energy levels up. This is one of the most important stress management strategies for freshmen.