Getting through the hard part – students and staff take time to de-stress

By: Jill Prince
Email: princej@findlay.edu

Coming into the last leg of the semester, stress becomes a very common feeling among college students.

According to a 2018 study published in the journal Depression & Anxiety that surveyed 67,000 college students across more than 100 institutions, “Three out of four students reported having at least one stressful life event in the past year. And for more than 20 percent of students, there were quite a few events, reporting six or more in the past year.”

So, what is stress? Karyn Westrick with The University of Findlay’s Counseling Services said there are many different definitions, but one sticks out to her.

“Stress is a perception that we cannot control something the way we would like to control it,” said Westrick.

 The normal amount of stress for college students varies per student. Westrick said two types of stress are present in our lives.

“Eustress is the things that keep us functional, the distress is when it’s too much and starts interfering with the quality of life,” said Westrick.

Sixth-year Pharmacy Student Alysa Martin feels stress during her rotations.

“Now that I am on my rotations, my stress is much different than when I was in class. I still have assignments, both for my preceptors and for UF, but that isn’t what stresses me out anymore,” said Martin. “I still feel a little stressed from time to time because it is truly the first time in my life that I am calling the shots and making decisions. Not only does my grade depend on it, but so does someone’s life.”

Undergraduate student Kassidi Sullivan feels that her stress varies, but there are times when it is worse than others.

“I feel like I can balance myself pretty well, but I definitely have my moments throughout the day where it peaks more than others,” said Sullivan.

There are many things one can do to manage stress according to Westrick who has her own tips for de-stressing.

“Organization skills, time management, prioritization, all of those things give some management over things that might feel out of my control,” said Westrick. “I think the power of five minutes of deep breathing, yoga stretches, funny videos, just to reset.”

Both Sullivan and Martin have their own way of taking a breather from their daily life.

 “I like to give myself time away from my computer and phone, so I can just lay down,” said Sullivan.

“I hang out with my friends or my boyfriend to get my mind off things and just have some fun. I also feel really de-stressed after working out,” said Martin.

For those struggling to cope with stress on their own, Counseling Services offers many options for our students. Services such as individual counseling and walk-in services are available for students free of charge for students. For more information, call 419-434-4526 or visit the office located at 307 Frazer St.