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K-State Today

November 2, 2020

Coping with stress

Submitted by Lafene Health Center

Whether it's COVID-19 concerns, exams, work or personal relationships, stress seems to be a part of the daily experience of students, faculty and staff alike.

Lafene Health Center offers these tips to help address the stress.

  • Know what to do if you are sick and are concerned about COVID-19. Contact Lafene Health Center or your health care provider before you start any self-treatment.
  • Know where to get treatment and other support services, including counseling or therapy. K-State Counseling Services is encouraging all K-State students to utilize the telehealth visit option.
  • Take care of your emotional health. This will help you think clearly and be able to protect yourself, your friends and your family.
  • Take breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories, including those on social media. Set a time limit each day for checking the news.
  • Take care of your body.
    • Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate.
    • Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals.
    • Exercise regularly.
    • Get plenty of sleep.
    • Avoid excessive alcohol and drug use.
  • Make time to unwind. Try to prioritize activities you enjoy, such as watching a movie, listening to music, hiking, reading or calling a friend.
  • Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say "no" to new tasks if you start to feel like you're taking on too much. Try to focus on what you have accomplished at the end of the day and not what you have been unable to do.
  • Keep a daily journal. Writing down the events of the day can help you process them.
  • Connect with others. Talk with people you trust about your concerns and how you are feeling. Visit people when you can maintain a safe physical distance, make phone calls or schedule Zoom visits. Set up a reoccurring time to regularly check in with a friend.
  • Connect with your community or faith-based organizations. While physical distancing measures are in place, consider connecting online through social media, email or by phone.