How to Keep College-Related Stress from Causing a Panic Attack

Get Plenty of Sleep

Studies show that many college students don’t get enough sleep, which negatively impacts overall academic performance. Sleep deprivation can hinder your memory and cognitive skills, as well as increase your level of anxiety.

The best thing you or any college student can do to fight sleep deprivation is to come up with a schedule and stick to it. Even if you have late-in-the-day classes or no classes on the weekend, try to go to sleep at around the same time every night to keep your body accustomed to proper sleep patterns.

Know When to Take a Break

If college-related stress starts to feel overwhelming, take a break to clear your head. Try any or all of these suggestions. Find a quiet place and relax, or consider picking up a hobby or recreational activity to give yourself something to do when you start to feel strained.

You might even join a school-related club to give yourself an outlet. However, be careful not to let “taking a break” become an excuse for not doing work. Falling behind in your studies usually leads to even more stress when it comes time to actually get around to doing it.

Be Prepared for Exams

For many college students, exam time means panic and frantic studying. Don’t let major projects or exams catch you off guard. Go over each course syllabus at the beginning of the term and mark the dates of any major projects that are listed. Also make sure to take advantage of any study sheets or advice your professor may give out around exam time.

When it comes to actually taking the exams, try to maintain a positive frame of mind. Focus on the questions in front of you, rather than how your friends are doing or your overall results.

Remember, hyperventilating can trigger panic. Always take a moment to calm down if your breathing becomes rapid or shallow.

Ask for Help

Anxiety can be difficult to deal with if you have to face it alone. Whether it’s a friend, a counselor, or family member, find someone who you can talk to you when things get tough. Let that person know what they can do to help you – whether it’s tutoring, transportation, or simply lending a listening ear.

If you experience frequent panic attacks, it may mean that you are suffering from panic disorder. In this case, you may want to consider talking to a physician or therapist who can help you to manage your anxiety and keep panic attacks in check.

Whatever you do, don’t let your fear of possible panic attacks keep you from furthering your education. Countless students who deal with stress and anxiety almost daily still manage to graduate every year. If they can be successful, so can you!