MbShea@PWP@English@UMCP

Abstract English:

Stress is a universal feeling among college students everywhere. There are so many things that can cause you stress, such as academics, social pressures, transitioning, etc. Many times, it feels easier to ignore this stress and keep trudging on, but there is evidence that there are extremely negative biological implications for untreated chronic stress. According to the New England Journal of Medicine, stress can be a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, GI complications, and even brain health. In addition, a new theory called polyvagal theory predicts that there is a relationship between the vagus nerve and the body’s parasympathetic system, which could be a contributor to stress responses in humans. As a result, it is extremely important to prioritize your own health. There are certain techniques that have been shown to help reduce your stress. One of the most important is exercise. The Mayo clinic states that daily exercise results in an increase of endorphins, which are neurotransmitters associated with pleasure and stress relief. Another rather new technique in the science realm is mindfulness as a stress management technique. Mindfulness centers around disciplining the mind, staying in the present, and meditative techniques. Washington University is doing research on this topic to emphasize how this technique improves brain function and prevents negative responses to stressful situations. Lastly, time management is a well-known technique to help with your stress as a student. In college, it is easy to feel bombarded by all the tasks and projects you have to complete. Using a planner and taking the time to plan out your weeks and days is one sure way to reduce stress. Overall, college is a difficult and stressful time to many students, but implementing these techniques and understanding the science behind them may help reduce your stress.

Reader’s Profile:

There are people who shut down when they are stressed out. They may argue that they have been told so many times to reduce their stress and that they’re tired of hearing it and don’t want to listen to any more advice. They might say college is just stressful, and that’s a fact, and there’s nothing that can be done to fix it. They may just want to embrace their stress.

Reader’s Response: Though I am tired of being told to reduce my stress constantly, this guide is helpful because it gives realistic techniques with evidence behind them to give me a way to actually reduce it. In addition, these techniques don’t look too time-consuming. I can take 10 minutes out of my day to exercise or meditate. Also, time management might help me not only just as a student, but after college as well when I am a working adult. I can trust the information written in this guide because it is written by a student like me who is experiencing the same things, rather than an adult just yelling at me. Lastly, seeing the health implications of unmanaged stress has helped me realize that it is a serious problem that I shouldn’t ignore.

R, good plan. Make sure your title includes stress management or reduction. Otherwise, readers may think you are helping with room mate problems or study skills or selecting a major. :)

I wonder if you can share this guide in some setting? Your document can really help people now.

Mb