Typical student stress levels aren't easily relieved by fatty snack foods or a night of binge drinking. Experts claim that for stress that lasts throughout the semester, healthy eating and living is the only long-term relief for everyday frustrations and anxieties.
Sherri Darrow, Ph.D., director of Wellness Education Services, insists that while it may be possible to eliminate some forms of stress, it is important to recognize that student lives will never be stress-free. For that reason, Darrow recommends building up a series of resources to help cope with everyday stress.
"Good relationships with family, friends and partners are a support network for reducing stress," Darrow said.
Sophia Hetelekides, a senior history major, believes that her college friendships are a great asset when it comes to getting her mind off the negative aspects of a student's life, or when she just needs to vent to relieve some stress.
"I realize that my friends have hard days too, and it makes it easier to just deal with life," Hetelekides said.
According to Darrow, eating more whole grains, fruits and vegetables is an effective way to boost energy and the endurance to tackle big projects.
"Often eating real food is the first thing to go when students are stressed or pressed for time," Darrow said. "We try to recognize these key issues and try to address them."
The Wellness Suite in 114 Student Union continuously sponsors a free health snack program from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesdays throughout the month of September.
Students in need of a calming and comfortable space are always welcome to check out the Wellness Suite, where free hot tea is served daily and free massages are available by appointment with a licensed massage therapist on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
"Book the Monday ahead," she said. "Appointments fill up fast."
When special events aren't going on, the Wellness Center offers a cozy environment with couches, massage chairs and reading materials.
"I stop in to get hot tea whenever I can," said Amanda Cavese, a junior occupational therapy major. "I've taken advantage of the snack program a few times when I'm on the run."
Getting exercise is another essential way to cope with stress and keep energized, Darrow said. She recommends checking out the exercise, yoga and Pilates DVD collection in the Wellness Suite.
"Yoga allows a person to coordinate breathing, mind and body into exercise," Darrow said. "It gives people a safe space and time to themselves."
Darrow recommends that students take advantage of ongoing Life and Learning Workshops in both Pilates and yoga. The workshops, sponsored by Student Affairs and Student Advising Services are listed on the Wellness Education Services Web site.
"Exercise is important. Students should try to walk as much as possible, even when winter comes around," she said.
In addition, Wellness Education Services always offers free nutrition and fitness assessments.
UB's Wellness Team consists of the Student Wellness Team, Counseling Services and Health Services. Darrow recommends taking full advantage of the counseling services UB offers.
"We are just one arm of this huge resource for students," Darrow said.
Freshman pre-pharmacy major Alexandra Miller believes that the Life and Learning Workshops for time management will be a big help for students.
"I try not to procrastinate because once I have all my work done, I feel so much better," Miller said. "I have time to relax and to do things that make me happy rather than having that burden in the back of my mind."
The Wellness Center will host an open house on Thursday, Sept. 27 with prizes, drawings and educational resources.
Overall, Darrow said she encourages students to make appointments for massages and to use meditation techniques but also to recognize the importance of everyday healthy living in coping with stress.
"We know that stress can negatively impact schooling," Darrow said. "The Wellness Team promotes health to make students see that little changes can make life less stressful."
