Stress and relaxation
University is intended to challenge and extend our knowledge and experience. Prepare for these challenges and you can make the most of the new knowledge and experiences without getting overwhelmed by the stress that this can involve.
Student stories
"I’m here at University because I like study, I like the reading and the discussions. But even though I like learning I was beginning to feel overwhelmed. I was getting stressed by deadlines and it was effecting my work and my ability to enjoy life. The mindfulness meditation group at Counselling Services is a space that’s clear of all those stresses." Read more stories.. or Tell us your story.
Practical support during university’s real challenges
Academic support
Social connection
- Student Clubs and societies
- Sports clubs
- Student groups who have done Living Well training
Personal support
Prepare for challenges and opportunities
Stress is our response to a perceived threat. To prepare you for emergency action, your nervous system releases a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol. The type of intense focus and explosion of physical energy that results can be extremely helpful when you are faced with an opportunity or challenge. It can also leave you exhausted, prevent you sleeping and interfere with activities that require more extended, less intense concentration.
Meditation and relaxation can help by improving concentration, reducing tension in the muscles, helping you sleep and reducing stress, anxiety and depression. Meditation allows the mind to become more peaceful, calm and focussed. There are many different types of meditation practices that you can try in order to see what works best for you.
Mindfulness meditation
This type of meditation focusses on paying attention in a non-judging way to the present moment as it unfolds. It uses breathe to anchor you to the present moment. You can experience it now by clicking on the sound file.
Sound file
Inquire about weekly mindfulness meditation group at counselling service.
Practical Preparation
For some knowing what to expect and being prepared for it can reduce their stress and worry.
- Developing a study timetable.
- Setting goals.
- Planning and prioritizing.
- Inquire about ‘getting a good night’s sleep’ group at counselling service.
- Inquire about ‘stress management’ group at counselling service.
- Healthy Tuesdays
