Navigating University With Anxiety - You’re Not Alone
University is hard. If you’re a student like myself, you’ve probably been told a million times that “university is that time of your life,” but why does nobody talk about how the late-night study sessions, looming deadlines, and constant self-pressure can impact your mental health?
Recent research suggests that more than one in three students (34.60 %) struggle with anxiety (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and specific phobia)
Remember you’re not alone, you’re not weak, and you’re doing an amazing job - give yourself the recognition you deserve.
Why Is “Pushing Through” Not A Long-Term Solution?
Like myself, you’ve probably played into the university culture that often celebrates students who stay up all night and run on too much caffeine while still having time to hang out with friends on the weekend.
In life, we are taught to admire the hustle - so when you start to feel anxious and burnout, naturally, the instinct is to
Keep pushing
Power through the fatigue
Just get it done
But here’s the problem with that: that coping mechanism doesn’t work forever. That might get you through a tough week, but it comes at a cost in the long term. Soon enough, you’ll start to feel:
Burnt out, emotionally numb, isolated, and physically unwell
Sustainable Ways to Manage Anxiety - Self Care
As a university student, here are a few of my favorite self-care tips to help manage my anxiety and school and prevent burnout.
Stay consistent - routines help create emotional safety and predictability
Move your body - go for a walk!
Talk to someone - reach out to a counselling service
Find a hobby you enjoy - journal, cook, crafts
Fuel your body - fuel your body with nutritious foods and rest
Learn about more tips to manage anxiety through student anxiety counselling.
You Deserve Support
If you are a student in the Comox Valley feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and exhausted from the constant pressure of school - I promise you are not alone, and you don’t have to navigate this by yourself.
Your education should challenge you but not cost you your well-being.
Book a free consultation today for anxiety counselling.
