Peer Support Centre: We're here to listen.
School Stress
Prevalence
School stress is one of the most common issues we see at the Peer Support Centre, and it is one of the most common issues students experience on campus in general. According to a study done in 2011 by the National College of Health Assessment (NCHA), 55% of students at the U of A had experienced a time where academics had been traumatizing or very difficult to deal with. In addition, 87% of respondents indicated feeling overwhelmed by everything that they had to do.
Signs
There are many common indicators that present themselves when someone is feeling stressed. While each person may experience the effects of stress differently, many times people report the following:
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Lack of sleep
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Irritability
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Frequent headaches
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Lack of interest in things you normally enjoy
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Anxiety
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Racing thoughts
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Difficulty concentrating
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Frustration
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Disorganization
These are only a few of the ways stress can impact an individual, but they illustrate the pervasiveness school stress can have on a person’s overall wellness.
What can I do about it?
There are many different ways that an individual can cope with school stress. Setting boundaries with others can be helpful during times when school pressure increases. As well, setting personal limits for yourself can help prioritize what needs to be done and keep things focused, reducing the amount of distress you experience in the future.
In addition, developing time management skills and building a plan for yourself can help keep you organized during times of peak school stress, allowing you to get things done before you feel overwhelmed.
Lastly, remember to take time for yourself! Take time, even if it’s a short time, to do things that you like to do, whether it’s spending time with friends, watching Netflix etc. Do what makes you happy!
Common Resources
Math and Applied Sciences Centre
Phone
780-492-4268
Fax
780-492-7267
Email
psc@su.ualberta.ca
Please note, that the Peer Support Centre is closed for the summer. If in need of supportive listening, please call the Edmonton Distress Line at 780-482-4357.
Monday, Wednesday, Friday
9AM - 5PM
Tuesday & Thursday
9AM - 7PM
Peer Support Centre
Room 2-707
Students' Union Building
University of Alberta
8900 - 114 Street NW
Edmonton, AB
T6G 2J7
