Tackling Academic Stress as Students

Elabor Awelu

As university students, utmost priority must be given to our overall well-being while also striking a balance with academics. However, many students find it difficult to manage academic stress.

Academic stress is a common experience among university students and it isn’t always bad. At a manageable stage, it is necessary and healthy because in most cases it keeps one motivated and pushes one to stay on track with studies. The University of Ibadan is a highly competitive institution with rigorous academic standards, which leads to high levels of stress among students. Consequently, many find it challenging to cope with.

The academic expectations at the University of Ibadan are quite high, and students are required to perform optimally well. It is not uncommon to see students moving from one lecture theatre to another, or spending long hours in various reading rooms to avoid failing courses or being dismissed from the university. This is, after all, the primary goal of attending the first and best university in Nigeria.

However, this stress might not be traced to only academics; it can be attributed to recent various factors. Many students are faced with financial pressure, heightened by the inflation in the cost of living in the country, a huge contribution to the mental stress of students.

Academic stress has a range of negative effects on students, both in the short-term and long-term. Stress perception has a varying degree and many others.

Some of the Common Effects of Academic Stress on Students. They include:

Physical health problems: Academic stress can lead to physical health problems such as headaches, fatigue, stomachaches, and other stress-related conditions. Prolonged stress can also weaken the immune system, making students more susceptible to illnesses.

Mental health problems: Academic stress can also have negative effects on students’ mental health, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. Prolonged stress can also increase the risk of developing chronic mental health conditions.

Poor academic performance: students’ academic performances are also negatively affected. Impaired concentration, memory, and decision-making abilities. It can also reduce motivation and engagement in academic activities, leading to poor grades and performance.

Social problems: Academic stress can lead to social problems such as social withdrawal, conflict with peers and family members, and strained relationships. It also reduces the ability to participate in social activities, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Substance abuse: Some students may turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances to cope with academic stress, thereby leading to a high possibility of addiction and other negative consequences.

Basic Solution to Manage Stress as Students

Seeking support: It is important to seek support from friends, family, or professionals such as counsellors or therapists. The University of Ibadan offers counselling services to students, which is a valuable resource for managing stress.

Practising self-care: Engagement in self-care activities such as exercises, yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques is very crucial in stress management. It is important to prioritize self-care and take breaks when needed, after all, body no be firewood.

Time management: Effective time management can help reduce stress. It’s important that as students, time management is of the essence in every of our daily activities. It is advisable to create schedules, set realistic goals, and prioritize tasks to ensure that the 24 hours of every day are managed effectively.

Good study habits: Good study habits such as creating study routines, taking breaks, and organizing notes, can help manage academic stress to a very large extent. It’s very important to know when to read, where to read and how to read. Most students wait till there is a test before reading, consequently putting themselves under unnecessary pressure.

Staying organized: Staying organized can help students feel in control of their activities and reduce stress. This includes keeping track of assignments, deadlines, and important dates.

Staying engaged in extracurricular activities: Participating in extracurricular activities helps maintain a sense of balance and reduces stress. There are a whole lot of extracurricular activities on campus to engage in, depending on one’s area of interest.

Connecting with peers: This can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed, and feelings of isolation, and provide a support network. Having supportive friends to cheer one up when one is down or having feelings of uneasiness is a big blessing to strive for. Be friendly.

By implementing the above tips and solutions, it will be easier to manage stress and maintain optimal physical and mental health, and at the same time, excel academically. Additionally, It is important to recognize when you need help and seek support when necessary.