Attending university should be some of the most informative, eye opening and revolutionary years in a person’s life. Learning new things, meeting a variety of people and discovering the culture of a new city or country, the opportunities for personal growth are endless. Although there may be pressure to succeed, it’s still important to look after yourself, both mentally and physically!
Unfortunately for some, the day-to-day struggles of university life can be tough. Sometimes it can easily get the better of you. Many of you have recently decided on your academic future and are confident (hopefully!) in the choices you’ve made, so you feel ready to get started on your new journey. But, before you begin planning your first big night out, start to think about the other important things that you may need to know. For example how the facilities at your chosen university may be able to help when life gets a little too much to handle?
When things begin to get rough, it can seem like the world’s knocking on your door. The pressures you may feel, to continue on with life as normal, may also begin to wear you down. Anxiety-related issues amongst students are one of the key contributors to poor academic performance and yet it is something that can be sorted out!
The most important things to understand are when and why someone might be affected by anxiety issues. There are a number of contributors from environmental factors, genetics, substance abuse and even brain chemistry that can cause anxiety disorders. However, it is most commonly linked with the general stress we experience in our day-to-day lives. If you suffer from anxiety issues, or know someone else who might be struggling themselves, look out for these common symptoms:
- Problems sleeping
- Cold or sweaty hands and/or feet
- Heart palpitations (irregular heart beat)
- Dry mouth
- An inability to be calm/still
- Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
- Snowballing worries
If you’ve realised that you’re getting slightly more worked up over everyday worries then usual, or maybe you’ve noticed that your housemate hasn’t been awake at the ‘usual’ times of day, it may be time to step in and do something about it. Anxiety disorders can lead to a series of issues and it’s important that you nip them in the bud early. A recent study conducted by the NUS (National Union of Students) reports that only 1 in every 10 students suffering from anxiety-related issues actually sought out counselling or external help/advice.
Surprisingly enough, it’s often the returning students that are finding life a little too daunting, possibly because they are aware of the tasks and challenges ahead. Whether it’s a build up of summer questions, grade concerns or re-take worries, there are lots of things that can trouble any student. However, if you know how to deal with them, then there’s nothing to worry about!
Fortunately, here at Coventry University we believe that by speaking to the right people and having the opportunity to voice your concerns in a safe and friendly environment, we can help to calm those nerves. Our health and wellbeing team are always on hand to offer support for anxiety issues, depression and even sleep disorders.
Email: counsell.ss@coventry.ac.uk
Telephone: 024 7765 8029
Hopefully you’re enjoying your time at university and you’ve managed to settle in ok. However, if you’re finding it more difficult than expected, or you’re feeling that your work is beginning to pile up on you, our team of helpful, friendly staff will be able to give you the right advice to help you focus, smile and enjoy yourself more.
