Some amount of stress is normal in everyday life, especially for college students. If you are experiencing an overwhelming sense of stress, you may want to speak to a counselor about ways to cope.

Signs of stress can include:

• Problems eating or sleeping
• Increased use of alcohol or drugs
• Increased boredom or fatigue
• Problems making decisions or completing tasks
• Decreased concentration
• Irritability
• Nightmares
• Overpowering urges to cry or run and hide
• Frequent headaches, backaches, muscle aches or stomach/indigestion problems
• Frequent illness or accidents;
• Weakness, dizziness or shortness of breath. These last symptoms could signal an "anxiety attack."

Prolonged stress can lead to an anxiety disorder or depression. If your symptoms continue even after the stressful situation has passed, please consider meeting with a counselor.

National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety

Anxiety Disorders Association of America

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