Educational
National Stress Awareness Month: Ways High School STEM Students can Manage Stress
April is National Stress Awareness Month, meant to bring attention to the negative impacts that stress can have. High school students, especially those involved in STEM, are no stranger to feeling stressed, from maintaining a GPA to extracurriculars, to applying for scholarships and college. We’ve compiled a list of ways to help students manage stress and help them be successful in their pursuit of STEM!
1. Time management
The first step in managing stress is to learn effective time management. STEM students often have many deadlines to meet, projects to complete, and exams to study for. The key is to prioritize tasks and make a schedule to ensure that you have enough time to complete everything without feeling overwhelmed. By making a to-do list and setting realistic goals for themselves, students can feel more confident and manage their time better.
2. Exercise and Physical Activity
Exercise and physical activity are excellent ways to manage stress. Engaging in regular exercise can help reduce tension and improve mood. Exercise doesn’t have to be strenuous, it could be as simple as taking a walk or jogging. Physical activity helps to increase endorphins which make you feel good and reduces stress levels.
3. Relaxation techniques
There are various relaxation techniques you can use to manage stress. Some of the most effective techniques include deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. Deep breathing exercises are easy to do and can be done anywhere. Taking deep breaths can help you calm your nerves and relax your body. Meditation and yoga can also help reduce stress levels.
4. Avoid Caffeine and Sugar
While caffeine and sugar may seem like good ways to keep you energized and focused, they can increase stress levels. Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase your heart rate and make you feel jittery. High sugar intake can also cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels and lead to feelings of anxiety. Instead of relying on caffeine and sugar, choose healthier options like water, fruits, and vegetables.
5. Reach out for Help
Lastly, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. High school can be a challenging time, and it’s okay to ask for help when you need it. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or school counselor to share your concerns and get some advice. You can also join study groups or extracurricular clubs to connect with other students and receive support.
While April can be an incredibly stressful month for high school students, we encourage you to take time for yourself to relax. And when you’re ready to keep moving forward, San Diego Squared has plenty of internship and scholarship opportunities ready for you to take advantage of.