College students are coping with several life changes. 75% struggle with stress and people who are experiencing stress are more likely to get ill. Stress prevents the body’s immune system from combating antigens and is directly linked to digestive issues, heart problems, hypertension, and infections.
There are several things that college students can do to stay healthy in school. Employing some good habits and taking advantage of resources can help college students stay healthy while completing their studies.
Have Insurance
Make sure you have insurance when you go to college. Your parents’ insurance may offer continued coverage, but if you move out of state you may need to take out your own insurance plan. Fortunately, medical insurance for college students is available. You can choose from different short-term insurance plans to ensure that your specific healthcare needs are looked after. It’s important to check your coverage before you relocate to school and investigate your options so that you don’t find out you need insurance after you get ill.
Stay Active
You can improve or maintain your health with physical activity. Exercise is proven to reduce stress. This means that your immune system will be able to operate effectively and fight off potential infections. There are also mental benefits of exercise. People who exercise regularly are more alert and have more energy. The increased energy will come in handy and sustain you through the long hours of studying required. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy the benefits of exercise. Regularly walking and taking yoga are two great options.
Eat Healthily
You might be tempted to grab convenient snacks and meals. Fast food, chips and chocolate bars won’t give you the sustenance you need for good health, though. Replace chocolate bars with protein bars and invest in health supplements such as bone broth protein. You can eat fruits and vegetables instead of chips and benefit from the vitamins you’re consuming. Your digestive and immune systems will operate effectively and help you stay healthy. You will also avoid weight gain, which can be discouraging and cause depression.
Sleep and Recharge
Everyone needs to sleep to be healthy and alert, but most college students aren’t getting enough sleep. When you’re rested you’ll have more energy and be able to focus on your work. If you’re sleep deprived you’ll struggle to complete tasks and pay attention in class. Rest is also important. You can’t study 16 hours a day and absorb everything. Make sure you take time out for yourself to focus on things other than school. Your social life can also help reduce stress. A chat with a good friend can lift your spirits and provide the encouragement you need to succeed.
Use a Budget
College is expensive, so it isn’t surprising that money is one of the main causes of stress for college students. One of the best ways to avoid financial stress is to prevent overspending from the start of the school year. Figure out how much money you have available to spend each month. Research how much your monthly accommodation, transportation, food, and phone costs are. Then determine how much is left over. You will know how much you have available for extracurricular activities and avoid overspending.
Manage Your Time
In college, you don’t go to each class every day. Professors don’t give you regular reminders or endless deadline extensions. Planning a study schedule from the first day of college can help you avoid falling behind. Work ahead on assignments as soon as you receive them to make sure they’re done on schedule. It’s better to find out you have extra time later than assume you can take a week off and catch up on schoolwork. You also won’t need to cram as much if you manage your study schedule and keep up with your assignments. This means you’ll be able to reduce your stress and get enough sleep on a regular basis.
