Apps that can help

Everyone experiences stress from time to time. Not all stress is bad. In a dangerous situation, stress helps us prepare to face a threat or flee to safety. In non-life-threatening situations, stress can help motivate us when we need to take a test or interview for a new job. A little bit of stress can be helpful but too much can make us feel unwell and make it impossible to achieve our goals.

Here are some ways of reducing and managing stress that might help:

· Avoid procrastination. Procrastination can create more mental and physical stress. Time management skills will help you manage your academic schedule, social activities, and making time for yourself.

A time management app you could try:

Remember the Milk - https://www.rememberthemilk.com

· Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you burn off the energy generated by stress. Limit (or eliminate) the use of stimulants like caffeine which can elevate the stress response in your body.

A self-care app you could try:

Fabulous - https://www.thefabulous.co

· Practice good sleep habits so you are well-rested. Sleep deprivation can cause many physical and mental problems and can increase stress.

A sleep app you could try:

Sleep Cycle - https://www.sleepcycle.com

· Pace yourself throughout the day and take regular breaks. During breaks from class, studying, or work, spend time walking outdoors, listen to music or just sit quietly, to clear and calm your mind.

A relaxation app you could try:

The Mindfulness App - https://themindfulnessapp.com

· Set realistic expectations for yourself and others. Sometimes your own thoughts can cause you distress. Learn techniques for replacing unrealistic thoughts with realistic ones.

An anxiety app you could try:

Mindshift - https://www.anxietycanada.com/resources/mindshift-cbt

· Friends and family can be a great support when you need to vent but make sure that you don’t focus exclusively on negative experiences; try to think of at least three things that are going well for you and share those experiences as well.

· Remember to find the fun in life. Have a virtual or socially-distanced coffee with your funniest friend. Watch a movie or a comedian you like. Laughter can be a great tension-reducer.