For adult learners, balancing career, family & other commitments along with education is absolutely not a joke. It is stressful also. Research shows around 80% of adult students report constant stress. Certainly, it is quite obvious to get overwhelmed. But guess what else? There are hundreds of stress management practices for adult students.

Before just proceeding toward our main topic, let us first understand the major reasons for the stress. That’s why learning to manage stress is a significant part of your academic journey. Please note, we have tried to analyse the possible reasons for stress among adult learners, needless to say, reasons will vary from person to person.

By scientific definition, stress is a normal human reaction that happens to anyone and everyone. It can be positive, keeping us alert, driven and ready to avoid danger. However, stress becomes an issue when stressors continue without relief or stages of relaxation.

Physical Symptoms of Stress

  • Aches and pains.
  • Chest pain.
  • Tiredness or trouble sleeping.
  • Headaches, dizziness or shaking.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Muscle tension or jaw clenching.
  • Stomach or digestive problems.
  • Trouble having sex.
  • Poor immune system.

Stress can lead to emotional and mental indications like depression, anxiety or irritability.

Possible Reasons That Carry Stress Among Adult Students

Stress is not just a provisional inconvenience. Here are some of the main and possible stress factors adult students frequently experience ---

  • Coursework challenges can be stressful. It requires a lot of reading, and it’s regularly going to be challenging.
  • One of the greater issues that adults face when they return to school is how to efficiently manage their time.
  • Outside reasons, including financial and work difficulties. It can be a job loss or dissatisfaction. Financial issues are also a major concern.
  • Family emergencies and health problems are two very common stressors.
  • Stress related to technology may include disturbed or broken internet connections or computer/laptop crashes, etc.

Coping with technostress is not an easy task as living in the digital world has its advantages and disadvantages.

Stress Management Tips for Adult Students

Here are some effective and proven tips for better stress management ---

Brush Up Your Time Management Skills

Honing your time management skills will not only help you in managing stress effectively but also will help you in your daily life. You will learn to make the most of your day. Knowing what you need to get done, how long it will take to finish, and when you’re going to commit to finishing it, etc. will keep your stress levels low.

Certainly, responsibilities and commitments will be there but sticking to a schedule will keep you balanced. Try a time management app which can help you keep track of research, deadlines along with the other important factors.

Don’t Neglect Physical Activities

We understand that your life is hectic and demanding but believe us, any kind of physical activity such as meditation, yoga, hitting a gym, running, jogging, home workouts, tai chi, breathing exercises, muscle relaxation, stretching, etc. do help in keeping stress at bay. It is important to take good care of your body each day. Eating right, exercising and getting enough sleep aid your body manage stress much better. Exercise does a body and mind good.

Skipping meals, sitting on the couch all day, watching TV or Netflix, taking your frustration out on others, etc. will not help you in handling your stress effectively. So, try to stop these bad habits before they start and if you’ve already implemented them, commit to quitting right away.

Ask For Extra Support if You Need It

Learn to say “no” to extra responsibilities. Try to stay connected with individuals who keep you calm, make you happy and give you emotional support. If you feel depressed or overwhelmed, or if you’ve tried all the possible ways and the pressure is still intolerable, look into professional counseling.

Also, contact your instructors and advisor. Academic advisors and instructors will be able to listen and may have knowledge of possibilities that might not be outward at first. When stressed, it can be hard to see all those possibilities. Let them know how the challenges you are facing which have affected your course participation (if affected).

Create A Strong Routine

Set a routine and stick to it. Strategize each day. Budget your time just like how you budget your money. By doing this, you should recognize a list of important goals for each day, then set aside blocks of time to accomplish these goals. Figure out your power hour (when you do your best work), then plan study time for that time.

Create a closed-door strategy when you’re studying. Plan breaks, meals, and sleep as part of your routine. They’re just as significant as your to-do list. Getting up daily with no knowledge of what you plan to do or when you will do it is intrinsically stressful.

Consider the Educational Institute that Fits Your Lifestyle

Select your degree provider who believes in a holistic approach to education. Go for a program which will give academic support when you need it, which will support you in completing your dream degree effectively. Consider online accelerated degree programs for busy working professionals. These will not create any hindrance in your educational career and you can earn a degree while working.

To End With

Being aware of your stress levels and what may trigger stress in your life is also equally significant. Getting enough sleep and mindfulness also definitely help in managing stress. Needless to say, it’s normal to be stressed sometimes but long-term stress can cause a lot of serious health issues. Try releasing and managing stress by using a few simple strategies that we have shared.

 

 


Written By : Rebecca Wilson