10 Ways To Manage Your Stress And Anxiety
Published on 25 May 17
It's been a stressful week and emotions have been running high, particularly in Manchester after the recent events. Stress and anxiety is something that everyone experiences at some point in their lives. Remember that support is always available with the University’s counselling service. Here are some tips to help you better manage your stress and anxiety.
1. Try relaxation techniques
Relaxing is great to reduce your anxiety levels. This can be in the form of meditation, yoga or any other sort of mindfulness activity. Make sure you try out the free De-Stress activities provided by SPORT, there is something for everyone! Go along to a yoga session as part of the De-Stress activities – they’re running 4 times a week. The University’s Counselling Service are also running Mindfulness Meditation workshops each week.
2. Time Management is key
Working smart is essential; the best part is that is saves you time to do other things you want such as catching up on Netflix, reading or playing a sport. In the long term, it can be a challenge to balance your time management skills levels without procrastinating creeping in. There's lots of online resources available to help you manage your time. Check out student blogger Mary's procrastination station blog post for a nice light-hearted read on the subject.
3. Eliminate Stimulants.
Often times, we overlook simple answers that are right in front us. High doses of caffeine can lead to panic attacks, shaking hands and a rapid heartbeat and can often do more damage than we expect. Not only is cutting caffeine better for your long term health, it also avoids you running around like Tweek on South Park.
4. Accept the elements of randomness.
When you are stressed it’s easy to always blame yourself for things that go wrong. Understand that some things if life can’t be changed, no matter how hard you try There is no good coming from allowing the weather to bother you- how will worrying about that change the weather? Alternatively, look at how you can make the most of every moment. Spend the rainy day reading or jog in the rain.
5. Laugh more and smile.
Freaking out about your busy schedule? Smile. It is hard to feel negative when smiling. Just like the famous philosopher Bob Marley said “Don’t worry, be happy”. Taking life less seriously can ironically help you live a better life. Spend some time watching comedy laughing increases oxygen and blood flow which in turn reduces stress.
6. Enjoy time with friends.
Spending time with friends will help you deal with stress and anxiety better. During these times, it is common for your mood to suffer and feel lonely. Finding time to do social activities such as grabbing a drink or going shopping with your friends can help you bring more positive energy in your life.
7. Eat well.
Try to avoid sugar, processed foods and reduce your carbohydrate intake. Eating lean protein, vegetables and whole foods will help you feel better in general. When stressed, it is easy to crave junk food and sugar, but remember that this will make you even more tired and sluggish in the long run.
8. Take control.
It is common to fall into negative thinking patterns. Simply understanding this is crucial as it allows you to be consciously aware and take control of what you can do to mitigate these negative emotions. If you’d like more support on this, the Library is hosting a workshop on Thursday 25 May which explores challenging unhelpful thinking habits - book now.
9. Pursue your passions.
Don’t just stay at your desk! You may be overloaded with studying, work and seminars, but try to squeeze in a couple of hours a week to do the activity you really enjoy. It is always healthy to feed the soul.
10. Reward yourself.
When accomplishing personal goals, big or small, treat yourself to something nice. This can be something as simple as a nice meal, a relaxing night or even a weekend away. Enjoy each achievement before your jump into the next thing.
For more wellbeing advice, check out the Manchester 6 Ways to Wellbeing.