Stress Management
for University Students
University Counselling Service
UWI, Mona
What is stress?
 Our
reactions to any challenges or
demands. These reactions can be
physical, mental or emotional.
 Stress
can be helpful (giving an
extra burst of energy)
or harmful (leading to serious
physical, mental and emotional
harm)
Manifestations of Stress
 Physical
ill-health
- frequent headaches
- frequent use of antacids for upset
stomach
- palpitations and/or chest pains
- fainting feelings
- frequent colds and ‘flu
Manifestations of Stress (cont’d)
 Emotional
-
ill-health
unrealistic fear
the blues
irritability
frequent outbursts of anger
withdrawal
loss of joy
Manifestations of Stress (cont’d)
 Intellectual
Impairment
- poor concentration
- unreliable memory
- difficulty making decisions
-difficulty dismissing problems
Managing Stress
 Analyze
the problem
- acknowledge it
- note feelings and thoughts
- record how you handled it
Managing Stress (cont’d)
 Become
change-skilled
- flexibility
- adaptation
- anticipation of change
-alter your perspective
Stress management
strategies for students



Have realistic expectations of yourself
Do not focus on expectations of significant
others if this is likely to add to your stress
level
Don’t focus too heavily on grades,
concentrate instead on “doing your best”
 Do
not give in to feelings of panic
 Maintain
an “I can do this” attitude
 Know
your personal stress signals
(symptoms)
 If
you are having serious problems
be sure to speak about this with the
relevant members of the university
staff
 Organize
yourself
 Control
your environment by
controlling who and what is
surrounding you
 Give
yourself positive feedback and
small rewards for tasks
accomplished
 Learn
relaxation techniques
 Exercise
- your body’s productivity
depends on it’s ability to provide
food and oxygen to the cells
 Get
adequate rest
 Feed
yourself properly - do not
“poison” your body
References
Williams- Brown, Sharon Managing the Stress of the Final Exam Period
Presentation to Norman Manley Law School Students, 2002
Gordon Stair, Angela Stress Management for Higher Education
Administrators. Presentation to ACHEA Conference, June 2001