Let's face it. Stress is a normal part of life. And college...it's stressful.
The signs of stress can look different for each person. For some, it can manifest physically with sweating, heart racing and even becoming ill more frequently. Stress can also be observed in behaviors like procrastination and seeing a drop in class grades. Or some students experience stress internally and may feel a loss of direction or have difficulty concentrating.
While experiencing stress is normal, it is important to manage it well. IUPUI has several options for helping students develop healthy coping mechanisms.
Relieve stress through academic assistance programs
Achieving academic success is a common stressor among college students. The greatest relief of stress, in this circumstance, often comes from receiving assistance with studies.
First, students are recommended to contact their course instructors about concerns with coursework. Instructors are often the best resource for answering questions and efficiently connecting students with the proper assistance.
IUPUI provides a wide range of academic support programs across its campus, many of which offer their services to students with no out-of-pocket cost. These resources include:
The Bepko Learning Center is located on campus and has an option to connect students with a tutor for their specific needs. Private tutoring is one service that has an out-of-pocket cost.
Relax and recharge before finals
Sometimes the best tactic for managing stress is simple – have fun!
Stress Busters Week has several activities planned Dec. 5–9 to help students relax before final exams begin. Students can cuddle up with furry friends, take a brain break at the Y2K Game Night Pajama Party or get pampered with a free chair massage.
Family visits and exploring Indianapolis offer plenty of opportunities for fun, too. Encouraging your Jaguar to take a break and explore the city's must-see neighborhoods, local sports and outdoor adventures is a great way to relieve their stress.
Your support is invaluable during stressful times. It may be the boost that's needed to help students overcome challenges.
Meet with a health and wellness coach
Through the Division of Student Affairs wellness programs, students can meet with a health and wellness coach. This free service helps student uncover their values while unlocking their full potential.
In health and wellness coaching sessions, a certified coach can:
- Help determine students' strengths.
- Assist in overcoming challenges.
- Help set goals and develop a plan to achieve them.
Coaches tend to focus on topics such as well-being, time management and overall stress reduction. Your Jaguar can sign up anytime throughout the semester.
Professional services available to students
For some, professional clinical services are the best option for managing stress.
IUPUI Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) is an on-campus resource that offers students the professional support they need and the care they deserve.
CAPS recognizes mental and emotional well-being as an important part of students caring for themselves. As such, they have many services to meet varying levels of need:
- Mental health screenings.
- Presentations and programs.
- Workshops.
- Individual and group mental health care sessions.
Many of their offerings are available online and in person. Students can contact CAPS to discuss options best suited for them.
New virtual care course now an option
CAPS, by popular demand, developed a free, virtual course students can access through Canvas. The course is aimed at helping students handle the stress they may experience during their time in college.
Its content contains insightful information displayed through text, video and interactives. Students have the ability to move through the course content at their own pace.
This resource has been welcomed with open arms, especially as the professional services at CAPS experience a consistently high level of requests. The virtual care course offers a valuable alternative that students can access 24/7 to cope, care for themselves and manage stress.
