Here is how you stress less: ultimate student tips

1.Recognise the signals

Stress can manifest in various ways. Sometimes, you just don’t see it coming. Confusing, right? So how can you recognize that stress? It’s important to keep an eye on both your mental and physical signals, as these two are closely connected. Physical symptoms like poor sleep, decreased appetite, and endless worrying are often the first red flags. Or maybe you notice it’s harder to concentrate during class or that social interactions feel more challenging. Bingo! These are likely signs of high stress levels. So stay alert and listen to your body!

2.Acknowledge your stress

You’ve recognized the signals—good job! Now comes the next important step: acknowledgment. Are you struggling with fear, failure or exam stress? That’s completely okay, as long as you don’t deny it or avoid it! Sometimes, you may know something is wrong but have no idea how to deal with it. Sounds familiar? Read on!

3.Talk about it

Talking about stress is often the key to more peace and clarity. It’s not always easy, but simply sharing your story with someone you trust can bring relief. Normalise these conversations; it helps break taboos and inspires others to do the same.

If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. We know that asking for help can sometimes feel like a big step, but it’s not a sign of weakness; it’s actually a sign of great strength. Professionals at WAT WAT, Tele-Onthaal, and JAC are ready to chat or call you for FREE. Talking helps you gradually gain insight into your own feelings.

Prefer face-to-face contact? Drop by one of the OverKop-houses, CABIN of JAC. These spaces are designed as safe havens for young people. You can not only relax and meet peers but also find a listening ear if you’re dealing with something. Share your story and feel the pressure lift off your shoulders.

4.Set achievable goals

Be realistic with yourself! The pressure to perform can be immense. Try focusing on smaller, achievable goals. By taking small steps, you make the process less overwhelming. This helps you reach your goals without putting too much pressure on yourself. And by being less strict, you’ll gradually get closer to your main goal.

5.Digital detox

It may sound cliché, but it’s a fact: smartphones and social media are major sources of stress. Do you feel like you’re not spending too much time on your phone? Check your total screen time (and yes, texting counts too 😉). Try going a day without your smartphone or limit your screen time. This can help clear your mind and truly relax. It’s perfectly okay to be offline for a while and not constantly be distracted. These are all unnecessary stimuli that keep buzzing in your head. Get rid of them!

Easier said than done? Don’t worry. There are apps that encourage you to touch your device as little as possible. Irony! A well-known example is the Forest app. In this app, you plant a little tree; the longer you avoid using your phone, the bigger the tree grows. You can grow your own forest! The great thing is that the app collaborates with an organisation that plants real trees based on users’ phone usage. So do your best!

6.Dopamine, your new bestie

Binge-watching a series during breaks? That’s history! Physical activity is a real game-changer when it comes to stress. You don’t have to run a marathon; even a short walk can help clear your mind. It’s scientifically proven that exercise releases happiness hormones. So lace up those sneakers and head outside! A bit of fresh air can make the difference.

7.You are what you eat

Need an extra boost? Give your body its daily dose of vitamins. Unhealthy eating can kickstart a vicious cycle of stress. We often overlook our eating habits and sometimes consume energy drinks like water, resulting in a serious sugar crash. This is a definite no-go!

And then there are medications for concentration. Try to get the basics sorted before turning to those options. Small changes in your diet can make a world of difference! We know that eating healthy on a student budget is a challenge, but trust us: investing in nutritious meals really pays off in your energy levels and mood. So let’s break that vicious cycle and make smart choices.

Here are some tips to help you get on the right track:

• Visit the market for your fruits and vegetables. You get some exercise, the products are fresher, and you might find a good deal. This means three times success!
• You can also keep an eye on the app Too Good To Go. This app collaborates with 170,000 partners to create a world without food waste. As a buyer, you get the chance to purchase products at lower prices before they are thrown away.
• You can also find many budget recipes online on sites like Libelle and Njam
• and even supermarkets like Albert Heijn have special pages with affordable recipes. Check it out!

8.Relax and breathe

Meditation and breathing exercises are powerful tools for reducing stress. Try to take a few minutes each day to breathe deeply in and out. This not only helps you organise your thoughts but can also reduce feelings of panic.

But how do you get started? The internet is full of information, which can be overwhelming. Check out apps like Headspace and Meditation Moments. Both offer a free basic package, so you can take your first steps into the world of meditation without pressure. Want more targeted information that fits your specific needs? Ask for extra guidance from the student services at your educational institution, or seek tips from organisations like JAC Antwerp. A single email is enough to make contact, so don’t hesitate!

CABIN: New Hotspot 

CABIN is the new hotspot in the student area, focused on student mental health and comfort. Here, you can relax with a drink, chill on the couch, and meet other students. Stop by for group work, an intensive study session, or to join one of the fun activities. And last but not least: taboos don’t exist at CABIN. As a student, you’ll always find a listening ear here, whether it’s with a volunteer or a social worker. Need extra support? Professional helpers are ready for you if you wish. Together, we’ll tackle stress!