Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. College life is full of excitement — but it can also bring stress. The good news? There are simple ways to take care of your well-being and manage stress before it takes over.

Take Care of Your Body

Your physical health plays a big role in how you handle stress.

  • Eat Well — Fuel your body with nutritious meals (and yes, occasional treats like dark chocolate can give your mood a boost).
  • Get Enough Sleep — Aim for 7–9 hours each night to help your body recharge.
  • Move Your Body — Exercise is a proven stress reliever. Join a Group X class like Zumba or Pilates, go for a walk around campus, or stretch it out with yoga.

Engage Your Senses

Sometimes, the little things make a big difference.

  • Sip a warm cup of tea or coffee.
  • Look through photos of friends and happy memories.
  • Cozy up in your favorite hoodie or blanket.
  • Listen to music that lifts your mood — dance and sing along if you feel like it.

Plan for Calm

A little organization can ease daily stress.

  • Map Out Your Day — Spend a few minutes planning your schedule so you can start the day feeling prepared.
  • Add “Me Time” to Your Calendar — Make time for activities that help you relax, like reading, journaling, or taking a short walk.

Quick Ways to De-Stress

Need a fast reset? Try one of these:

  • Take a 20-minute power nap.
  • Call or text a friend — even a short chat can boost your mood.
  • Color a mandala or trace a finger labyrinth (printable options available below).
  • Cuddle with a pet or visit the SPCA for some animal time.

When You Need Extra Support

If stress starts to feel overwhelming, you’re not alone — and you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Counseling Services offers confidential support to help you manage stress and build healthy coping skills.

Are you interested in meditation or yoga techniques? Check out these great FREE podcasts!

Printable Stress Relievers