Hi! My name is Morgan Haynes and I’m the GEAR UP First Year College Advisor at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN). As you are now fully immersed into your spring semester of high school and for those who are seniors who are preparing for college it is important to understand how to reduce and manage your stress. With learning completely in a virtual environment it is crucial now more than ever to take time to destress and clear your mind.
After participating in all your classes for the day, take a break. Physically remove yourself from your computer screen. Make sure you stay social. You may forget or keep putting off keeping in touch with family and friends. Be sure not to isolate yourself, by staying social even making a phone call is an easy stress management technique to incorporate into your day. Don’t forget to exercise, it may not always be easy to fit into your schedule, but it has been tested as a way to manage stress. Even a 10-minute walk can boost your endorphins and improve your mood. This is not only good for your body, but your mind as well!
Online learning can be overwhelming and hard to keep up with. Getting organized is a can’t lose stress management technique. Keep your desk neat, create folder on your computer/tablet, map out your semester in a planner and set reminders for important dates. Another sure way to help reduce stress is to manage your time wisely. Prioritize tasks to avoid distractions, set goals to help stay on track. Don’t forget to take breaks. Stand up and stretch, listen to music, or call a friend. Sitting in one spot for hours on end isn’t good for your mind or body. Finally, check in with yourself. Are you having trouble sleeping, rapid heartbeat, depression, and many other symptoms of stress? Take a moment to regularly check in with yourself to gauge how you’re feeling mentally, physically then incorporate the stress management techniques that work best for you!
