School Stress Management
School can be stressful. With deadlines, assignments, exams, family responsibilities, and extracurricular activities, it's easy to become overwhelmed and feel like you're constantly under pressure. But it's important to remember that you're not alone, and there are ways to manage this stress and take control of your mental health.
What can I do about it when I feel overwhelmed?
First, examine your locus of control. Locus of control refers to how much control you believe you have over the events in your life. Someone with an internal locus of control believes that they have control over their life and the outcomes of events, while someone with an external locus of control believes that external factors, such as luck or other people, have more control over their life. Believing that external factors have all the control over our lives can leave us feeling powerless.
Because of this, having an internal locus of control can be helpful when managing stress. This means taking responsibility for your own actions and outcomes, and recognizing that you have the power to make changes and take steps to reduce stress. Here are some tips for managing school stress:
Prioritize and plan: Make a to-do list and prioritize your tasks based on their importance and urgency. Set realistic goals for yourself and break larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.
Take care of your physical and emotional health by getting enough sleep, eating, moving your body, and taking breaks when you need them. Make time for activities that you enjoy and that help you relax and recharge.
Manage your time: Use a planner or calendar to help you manage your time effectively. Schedule in time for studying, but remember that it’s equally important to make time for hobbies, friends, and relaxation.
Seek support: Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional if you need support. Talking about your feelings and getting help when you need it is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Sometimes, despite our best efforts, things happen that are outside of our control. It can be frustrating to feel like you don't have power over a situation. But it's important to remember that you can still control your response to these situations. When faced with a situation that you don’t have control over, it's okay to acknowledge your feelings and give yourself time to process them. You can also look for ways to take action that are within your control, such as seeking support from others or making a plan for how to handle the situation moving forward. Ultimately, handling things outside of your locus of control requires self-compassion and patience. It's okay to not have all the answers, and it's okay to ask for help.
Most importantly, remember to be kind to yourself and take things one step at a time.
You are enough!