Stress
What is stress?
Stress is tension in your body and mind caused by pressure or worries. It’s a form of fear. Fear helps us avoid danger – it’s part of how we’ve survived. Without fear, we might take too many risks. But sometimes your body reacts to things that aren’t dangerous, often because of past experiences.
For example: A look from a classmate is usually not a threat. But if you were bullied before, it might still cause stress.
In this case, something triggers your stress. Often, it’s your thoughts, like: ‘She’s looking at my hair and thinks it looks silly…’
Stress during your studies
Stress during your studies often comes from thoughts that make you feel anxious. Here are some common examples:
- 'If I fail this subject, I will disappoint my parents'
- 'Others do this so easily, why can't I do this'
- 'If I fail, then my student debt will rise and I will never be able to buy a house'
How do you notice stress?
Physical and behavioural signs: poor sleep, physical complaints (e.g. neck pain, headaches, stomach problems), procrastination, working too hard or feeling unmotivated, using drugs or alcohol, and changes in appetite.
Emotional and mental signs: lower or higher sex drive, crying, feeling down or restless, sadness, feeling hyper, and trouble concentrating.
What can you do?
What helps against stress is different for everyone. Many people think rest is the answer, but what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to find out what helps you and how your body and mind react to stress.
Here are some tips:
- Listen to others: If people around you say they’re worried about you, take it seriously. Sometimes others notice your stress before you do.
- Talk about it: Share your feelings with someone you trust, like a friend, family member or student coach. Talking can help you feel lighter and more clear.
- Find what helps you relax: Try different things like walking, listening to music, drawing, exercising, or doing nothing at all.
- Ask for help if needed: You don’t have to do it alone. Talking to a GP, student psychologist, or counsellor can give you support and clarity.
- Watch your thoughts: Sometimes your thoughts make stress worse. Try to notice what you’re telling yourself. Are your thoughts helpful, or do they make you feel more worried?
Self-learning modules
With your Fontys account, you can make free use of online self-help modules (e-health).
Stress among students
Stress is a part of life and a part of student life as well. If your stress level won`t go down or if you often suffer from anxiety, this is your wake-up call to take action. In this module, you will examine what causes your stress. You will learn to recognise stress and tackle its root cause.
Go to the Stress module
Work-related stress
Do you combine studying with a job? That can be stressful. A bit of stress is normal, but when work gives you little energy and causes too much pressure, it's time to act. This module offers useful explanations and exercises that will help you learn to recognise your stress signals.
Go to the Work-related stress module
Contact team Student Guidance
- If stress is affecting your mental well-being, make an appointment with a student psychologist.
- If stress affects your study progress, please book an appointment with a student counsellor.