Stress Management
Practice Self-Care
- Maintain realistic expectations of yourself, and avoid perfectionism.
- Give priority to sleeping, as it will regulate your nervous system and boost your immunity. Try to get at least 8 hours a night and take power naps as needed.
- Stick to healthy diet as it boosts your brainpower and helps reduce stress in several ways (mood swings, light-headedness, etc.). Also, make sure you eat regularly and refer to healthy snacks.
- Stay well hydrated, keep a water bottle with you at all times (in class, at home, etc.)
- Do not over-consume caffeine/stimulants.
- Exercise regularly, even if minimal exercise, as it will release stress and boost energy and concentration.
- Use meditation techniques, mindfulness, relaxation, etc.
- Practice Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR).
- Listen to music, as it can help relieve stress, calm you down or stimulate your mind depending on what you need in the moment.
- Practice a hobby or a passion of yours (singing, writing, painting, etc..) as a stress outlet.
- Work on your thoughts to keep a positive approach. Lean on positive self-talk.
- Push through procrastination.
- Prioritize your schedule.
- Celebrate your successes along the way and reward yourself.
Rely on Social Support
- Build your support network of friends, family, social groups (reading groups, university clubs, etc.)
- Make sure you have people to lean on in times of need.
- Push yourself out of you overwhelming thoughts and feelings and reach out to people you can trust.
Talk to Mental Health Professionals
Counseling Services at HBKU:
- Consultant Psychiatrist and Student Counselor: Dr. Rudwan Abdul-Al: rabdulal@hbku.edu.qa
- Phone: +974 4454 0222 / 4454 1244 / 7105 0222
- E-mail: counseling.services@hbku.edu.qa
- Appointments: By phone on any of the numbers listed above.
- HBKU Students Health (PDF - English)
Ministry of Public Health:
- Mental Health Resources (English)
- صحة نفسية
Emergency Number: 999
References
Global Purdue. (2018, May 17). The College Student's Guide to Stress Management. Student Life. https://www.purdueglobal.edu/blog/student-life/college-students-guide-to-stress-management-infographic/
Scott, E. (2023, February 9). Top 10 stress management techniques for students. Verywell Mind. Retrieved May 21, 2023, from https://www.verywellmind.com/top-school-stress-relievers-for-students-3145179