It is no mystery that college can be a stressful time for students. In the spring 2025 National College Health Assessment by the American College Health Association, 35% of U.S. college students reported having been diagnosed with anxiety, 26% with depression, and 8% with acute stress disorders. More than 37% also reported receiving psychological or mental health services.
The report is based on the completed surveys of 70,859 students at 97 universities and colleges across the U.S.
Finishing assignments, getting to classes on time, and balancing everything from a personal budget to paid work hours and extracurricular duties can add stress to a student's life.
That's why mental health professionals on and off campus recommend routines that can help students take care of themselves and manage their daily tasks.
Eastern Michigan University’s Counseling and Psychological Services offers a number of resources for students, available both in person and online. The program offers practical strategies for managing stress and staying grounded throughout a tough semester.
Whether they are looking to build healthier habits, find moments of calm or simply check in with themselves, students can try these counselor-recommended tips for prioritizing one's well-being.
Let those emotions out
Bottling up feelings adds to stress, so it's important to find healthy ways to express emotions.
University counselors recommended students take time each day to release what’s on their mind. One strategy is to journal to organize thoughts and gain perspective on overwhelming situations. Counselors also recommended talking with trusted friends or family to be supported and heard. Students may also want to try a self-delivered pep talk to build confidence and self-compassion.
Expressing emotions isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an important step toward maintaining balance and emotional well-being.
Add relaxation to the routine
Finding ways to unwind is essential to managing stress and staying centered during a grueling semester. University counselors encouraged students to build relaxation into their daily routine, even in simple ways.
Options include meditating to quiet thoughts, doing something creative like painting or writing, or practicing deep breathing exercises to calm the body and mind. While these can be done in a bedroom or a safe space like the Halle Library Reflection Room, it is entirely up to students to decide where they feel the most at ease.
Taking these small moments to relax can make a big difference in the long run. Taking time to relax can help students reset, refocus and face challenges with a clearer, calmer mind.
Get active
Physical activity is one of the best ways to boost mood and reduce stress. Another counselor-recommended way of de-stressing is to find an enjoyable and sustainable physical activity. Suggestions include hitting the gym at the EMU Rec/IM building, going for a walk around campus or through nearby parks, or participating in a yoga class to combine movement with mindfulness.
Exercise releases endorphins, improves focus, and can even improve sleep, all of which are key ingredients for supporting overall well-being.
Create a routine
A consistent daily routine provides structure and balance, especially during busy or stressful times like college.
University counselors said that establishing predictable habits can boost mood, reduce anxiety and make it easier to manage responsibilities. Simple habits like waking up at the same time each day, making the bed and blocking out regular time for homework or studying can create the consistency needed to promote better overall well-being. Spending less energy worrying means that more time is spent being productive and present.
Find a work-life balance
In the chaos of a semester, classes, jobs, homework and social commitments can all compete for students' time. Finding a healthy work–life balance helps students stay grounded, avoid burnout and actually enjoy their college experience. Some things that CAPS recommends to ensure the stress of school does not overtake life are making dates with friends, carving out time for self-care and taking time to eat healthy. By giving attention to both responsibilities and well-being, students can feel more fulfilled, focused and resilient throughout the semester.
Schedule an appointment with a mental health professional
Taking care of mental health is just as important as taking care of physical health, and sometimes, university counselors said, the best way to manage stress, anxiety or life transitions is to talk with someone who’s trained to help.
EMU offers several on-campus resources where students can find confidential, professional support at little to no cost. First, students can schedule an appointment with a university counselor for short-term counseling, crisis support and wellness workshops. Another option is to visit the counseling clinics that serve students, community members and others. Moreover, students can connect with the Community Behavioral Health Clinic for access to longer-term care.
Talking to a mental health professional helps students process emotions, gain perspective and build coping strategies.
The counseling services program also provides online resources for students, available on the university's website.
