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Dealing with Stress.

Stress - what is it?

Stress comes to everyone at some time in their life, and it is quite common among dyslexic students at college or university.

It comes as the result of feeling that things are piling up on top of you, and that you are not in control.

A little stress can be a good thing, and can give you the energy to work hard for an exam or assignment. However, too much stress can be damaging and can lower your boy's defences, especially your immune system. This can result in you getting throat infections and flu.

It can result in tiredness and feelings of anxiety, anger, and depression, which in turn can lead to health problems such as headaches, upset stomach, etc.

How can I avoid stress?

As a dyslexic student, the best way to avoid stress is to get to feel that you are in control of your studies.

Ways to achieve this are outlined on other pages of our website. They include:

• organizing your work by making lists of what you have to do;
  
  
• making a 'To do' list each day;
  
  
• planning ahead so that you are never taken by surprise by a deadline;
  
  
• Using an organizer (FiloFax or similar);
  
  
• keeping to your own deadlines

A balanced life.

Too much intensity about your studies can also lead to stress. It is important to balance your academic studies with activities which allow your body to shake off the tension in your muscles. Best of all are:

• sports;
  
  
• swimming;
  
  
• brisk walking;
  
  
• squash, tennis and badminton, etc.

Letting off stream.

Your emotions need some release as well. Studying hard is an intense business, which can lead you to feel anxious, fearful and depressed.

• don't be afraid to talk about your feelings with a friend or partner;
  
  
• go for a drink (not necessarily alcoholic!) with other students after a lecture. It can be re-assuring to see that other students are feeling as anxious as you are;
  
  
• try a half hour's meditation, or just listen to some favorite relaxing music;
  
  
• if you feel that things are getting out of control, go to see a student counsellor, or ring a helpline.
  
  
• take a break: visit another city for a day, or go into the countrside to get away from the scene of your anxiety.
  
  

Stress can be helpful or harmful. As long as you are well organized and in control, it can be a force for good.

• Coping with exam stress - International Stress Management Association.

• Stress Management - Buffalo University Counselling Service.

• Coping with exam stress.

• Reducing stress with exercise.

• Stress warning signals - University of Iowa.

• Coping with Stress at University - a Survival Guide - This book covers the main problems and stresses that a student may experience during their university career. Looking at university life from a variety of angles, this book equips the student to be able to deal with stressful situations ranging from exam pressure to relationship problems, from homesickness to managing finances. Although the problems do not change, the way a student faces them can and the more effective the approach, the less stress the student will feel when tackling their concerns. Quotes and case studies from students illustrate how problems have been dealt with in the past, and a number of coping techniques and exercises are provided to help prepare students for the transition into and through university life. USA | UK