North Texas Daily

Sarah Lagro / Staff Writer

With midterm exams coming up, tensions may start to run high for students.

According to a 2008 study conducted by the Associated Press and mtvU, four out of five college students experience stress on a daily basis. College students may have personal and academic obligations to stress over. Balancing a part-time job, a full class schedule, personal relationships and financial responsibilities are common stress triggers.

“The most common causes of stress are academic worries, money worries and having enough time,” psychology professor Kimberly Kelly said. “Stress is manageable, but many people understandably argue if they have the time.”

According to the American Institute of Stress, stress can cause an array of health problems such as high blood pressure, migraines and severe nausea.

Physics sophomore Ivan Patino thumbs through a textbook in Willis Library. Patino said he’s been sitting in the same spot for hours.

Kelly said students should manage their stress levels using a variety of techniques and  should seek help if they need it.

“A couple of the best ways to alleviate stress are exercise or some sort of stress-reduction technique like meditation or massage,” Kelly said. “But no special equipment or environment is necessary to take a few minutes to clear your mind and just breathe.”

UNT offers resources and events to students who may suffer from stress or stress-related issues.

The Counseling and Testing Center at UNT offers mental health screenings for students and staff. One-on-one or group counseling is also provided.

Communications junior Amairani Gomez said her French classes are a major source of stress in addition to procrastinating and personal obligations.

“I know midterms are coming up and I’m terrified to look at my syllabus,” Gomez said. “Most of my grade stems from tests and I haven’t been doing too well.”

The UNT Psychology Clinic, located in Terrill Hall, provides therapy to students. The Student Health and Wellness Center, located in Chestnut Hall, contains information about stress and massage therapy.

Graduate student Precious Bieni looks through a spiral on the second floor of Willis. Bieni said she incorporates bright colors into her routine to remain focused on studying.

In addition to informational resources, the Pohl Recreation Center provides a place to exercise and admission is free for all UNT students with an ID card. 

Political science sophomore Sam DeLeon said he thinks it is unfortunate when students turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with their stress.

“It’s very upsetting,” DeLeon said. “I’ve seen people go from bad to worse in that kind of situation. I would gladly talk to anyone if they were super stressed.”

If academics are a trigger, seeking help from professors or tutoring services can help ease stress, Kelly said.

Gomez said she seeks help from the Communications Library.

Students read, type and study at the rows of Mac computers on the ground floor of Willis.

“I spend a lot of time in there,” Gomez said. “The staff are always very helpful and I get a lot of work done.”

Tutors for a multitude of classes are also available in the Language Building.

“It’s okay if you need help,” DeLeon said. “Keeping this stuff inside is a disaster waiting to happen.”

Featured Image: Students occupy back-to-back tables with laptops, headphones and scattered study materials in Willis Library. Some listen to music to reduce stress. Photos by Hannah Ridings – Staff Photographer