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 Stress can be caused by both positive and negative external factors, such as falling in love or taking an exam.  Some things people commonly worry about are: o Having enough time or meeting deadlines o Facing the future o Dealing with a situation over which you have no control o Interacting with a person or a group of people

 Regardless of the cause of stress, how your body responds to stress is what you feel.  Recognize the emotional signs of being overly stressed: o Relationship difficulties o Withdrawal o Depression and anxiety o Feeling overwhelmed or isolated o Disorganization o Inability to concentrate  There are also physical symptoms of stress, which include: o Elevated pulse and blood pressure o Shallow breathing o Tight muscles, aches, and pains o Headaches o Difficulty sleeping o Frequent colds

 Take a quick online quiz to determine your current level of stress o o

 If your stress level is moderate to high, don’t worry! There are a lot of things you can do to manage and lower your stress.

 Nutrition – Eat a varied and balanced diet, and don’t skip meals.  Exercise – 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (i.e., brisk walking) every week and muscle- strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week  Sleep – Aim for 7-8 hours each night.

 If you’re already getting enough sleep, exercise, and nutrition and you still feel stressed, there are additional things to try: o Learn about time management. o Take time to relax. Practice deep breathing or meditation. o Find time to do activities that you find relaxing, like yoga, reading, listening to music, or a new hobby.  Alcohol and drug consumption can contribute to your levels of stress. Contact the Health and Wellness Center for more information if you think alcohol or drugs are affecting you.

 Counseling and Psychological Services: Lawrence 241, Individual and group services.  Department of Public Safety: 690 S. Church St Crime reporting and investigation, safe escort on campus.  Learning Assistance Resource Center: Lawrence 223, Tutoring, study skills and more.  Office of Judicial Affairs & Student Assistance: Sykes 238,  Office of Multicultural Affairs: Sykes 003, Services promoting academic achievement and personal well being.  Office of Social Equity: University Ave Mediation and investigation of complaints of harassment and discrimination.

 Campus Recreation: Ehinger Gym Rm  Student Health and Wellness Services: Wayne Hall, 2nd Floor  Twardowski Career Development Center: Lawrence 106,  Women's Center: Lawrence Rm 100, 2nd floor Resources, support, referrals for all women's issues. /  Writing Center: Lawrence Writing assistance start to finish.  Financial Aid Office: 25 University Ave  Scholarships: