The Facts: The Counseling Center has seen a 14-percent increase in student visits this year. This is an alarming statistic and indicates that economic woes and the usual stress of school are wearing on students as never before.
Our Opinion: Don’t let the stress get to you; college is too short to get excess anxiety over. Take a break during your day and relax.
College can be a stressful time, especially as the first testing cycle rolls around and projects begin to accumulate like the empty cans of Red Bull on your desk.
Many freshmen, and other students in general, tend to strain and unnecessarily worry about a few meager grades — for some students, this means anything less than a 90. The truth of the matter is that these poor grades are an intrinsic part of the University experience and are not a death sentence.
Kick back a little and engage in some of the many stress relievers on campus.
Often times, a few poor performances simply indicate a need for some additional support. Instructors are rarely calloused enough to completely ruin your grade over one or two assignments and are usually more than happy to lend a hand and lead you toward a good grade.
This isn’t to say students should be complacent, but a 14-percent influx in student visits to the Counseling Center is cause for concern.
The stresses associated with college funding and the overall economy certainly are wearing on students’ minds, and rightfully so. Still, the University experience should create constructive pressure and facilitate a learning environment, not burden students with unnecessary stress.
Going to the gym is a great way to reduce stress and provides the added benefit of physical activity; it helps students’ self-image and has innumerable health benefits.
If you have $1.50 in your pocket, walk over to the student cinema and see a movie — you’re not going to find much cheaper entertainment.
Many students view D.H. Hill as a building for research alone. The truth is that the building has thousands of classics and other relaxing reads, take a break up in the stacks during your day. Or, if you feel like being a bum — sometimes this is necessary for mental health — go play some video games in the East Wing.
The point is that the University has thousands of activities that are relaxing and enjoyable. The library, Carmichael, Pullen Park, sporting events, Cameron Village and Mission Valley are accessible and can provide time away from the books.
If you’ve already gotten back a couple poor scores and are struggling with a class, take a deep breath and don’t worry about it — there’s always tomorrow.
