April is Stress Awareness Month: How Can We Better Understand, Manage, and Thrive?

The month of April is always a busy time at Commonwealth University. With it brings a change in weather along with numerous events, both in and out of the classroom. Academics, work, family and personal commitments fill our schedules. 

And, with all that – April brings extra stress. 

April is Stress Awareness Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the impact of stress on our mental and physical well-being. Stress is an inevitable part of life, but how we manage it can make a significant difference in our health, relationships, and productivity. For our students, college life is an exciting but often stressful journey. Between deadlines, exams, social obligations, and personal responsibilities, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Stress, if not managed well, can negatively impact academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. That’s why it’s essential to develop healthy coping strategies. 

Understanding Stress:
Stress is the body's natural response to challenges, whether physical, emotional, or psychological. Short-term stress can actually be beneficial in motivating us to complete assignments, study harder, or overcome obstacles. Excessive stress, however, can lead to burnout, anxiety, and physical health issues.

Common Sources of Stress for College Students: 

• Academic pressure – Exams, papers, and maintaining grades 
• Time management – Balancing coursework, extracurriculars, and social life 
• Financial concerns – Tuition, rent, and daily expenses 
• Social and peer pressure – Fitting in and maintaining relationships 
• Future uncertainty – Career decisions and post-graduation plans 

Know the Signs of Stress:
It’s crucial to recognize when stress is affecting you. Some common signs include: 

• Difficulty sleeping or excessive fatigue 
• Increased anxiety or irritability
• Lack of motivation or procrastination
• Trouble concentrating
• Headaches, muscle tension, or changes in appetite 

Stress Management Strategies: 

1. Create a Realistic Schedule: Time management is key to reducing academic stress. Use planners, apps, or calendars to organize assignments and deadlines. Break large tasks into smaller, manageable steps.
2. Prioritize Self-Care: Don’t neglect your well-being. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious food, and exercise regularly. These habits help boost energy and reduce stress.
3. Stay Active: Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. Whether it’s jogging, playing a sport, or dancing, movement releases endorphins that improve mood.
4. Avoid Procrastination: Waiting until the last-minute increases stress. Set small goals, start early, and reward yourself for completing tasks.
5. Build a Support System: Connect with friends, family, or campus counselors. Talking about stress can help lighten the burden.
6. Limit Caffeine and Screen Time: Too much caffeine can increase anxiety, and excessive screen time (especially social media) can add unnecessary pressure. Try to set boundaries for a healthier balance.
7. Seek Help When Needed: If stress becomes overwhelming, reach out to a counselor or advisor. Like many colleges, CU offers free mental health resources. Please don’t hesitate to use them! 

Final Thoughts:
Stress is a normal part of college life, but it shouldn’t take over your experience. By implementing these stress-management strategies, you can maintain a healthy balance between academics and personal well-being. During this Stress Awareness Month, take a moment to reflect on your stress levels and prioritize self-care. You’ve got this!