101 Easy Destress Activities for College Students

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College life is an exciting and transformative journey, but it can also be a stressful time for many students. Thankfully, there are several destress activities for college students to help them cope with all the things life throw their way.

Between juggling classes, part-time jobs, social life, and the pressure of finals week, it’s no wonder that student stress levels can skyrocket. Having a toolbox full of strategies is key, especially in those tough times.

In this guide, we’ll explore various destress activities for college students that can make your college years not only manageable but also enjoyable.

There’s no one way that is the best way for college students to alleviate anxiety. So, I suggest browsing this list for some ideas. It may take a bit of trial and error for you to determine which activities are most effective for you. 

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What causes stress for college students?

Before we dive into destress activities, it’s essential to acknowledge the common causes of stress among college students. According to the American Psychological Association and experts at Harvard Medical School and Mayo Clinic, some of the most common stressors include:

Academic Pressure

The demands of coursework, exams, research papers, and tight deadlines can take a toll on students.

New Responsibilities

College life often comes with newfound responsibilities, such as managing finances, cooking, and laundry, which can be overwhelming for some.

Social Life

While building new relationships and making new friends is exciting, it can also be stressful, especially if peer pressure or romantic relationships come into play.

Health and Well-being

Maintaining physical and mental health can be challenging when balancing a busy schedule, poor diet, and lack of sleep.

Extracurricular Activities

Joining clubs, sports teams, or extracurricular activities can add pressure to an already packed agenda.

Online Classes

The transition to online classes due to unforeseen circumstances can introduce additional stress factors.

What are some stress relieving activities for college students?

Now, let’s explore some stress relief activities that can help you manage the pressures of college life and enjoy your journey to the fullest:

Regular Exercise

Engaging in physical activity is a great way to reduce stress levels. Whether it’s a quick walk, a dance party with friends, or joining a sports team, moving your body can release endorphins, boost energy levels, and improve your overall physical health.

Mindfulness Activities

Practices like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help you stay in the present moment, lower your heart rate, and reduce anxiety.

Social Connections

Spending time with friends and family members can provide emotional support and create a sense of belonging, which is crucial for mental well-being.

Relaxation Techniques

Experiment with relaxation exercises like progressive muscle relaxation or guided imagery to unwind and calm your mind.

Healthy Diet

A nutritious diet can positively impact your mood and energy levels. Eating well-balanced meals can help combat the negative effects of stress.

Adequate Sleep

Prioritize getting enough hours of sleep each night to improve your cognitive function and mood. Lack of sleep can exacerbate stress levels.

Stress Balls

Keep a stress ball handy for a simple way to relieve tension during particularly stressful moments.

Art and Creativity

Explore creative outlets like adult coloring books, coloring pages, or art classes to express yourself and relax your mind.

Nature Breaks

Taking a short break outdoors and getting some fresh air can do wonders for your mental health. Nature offers tranquility and a chance to clear your mind.

Music Therapy

Listening to classical music or your favorite tunes can have a calming effect and help reduce stress.

Positive Event Reminders

Create a scrapbook or journal to remind yourself of positive events and accomplishments in your life.

Board Games

Gather some friends for a game night with board games like Mario Kart or other fun games that can help take your mind off stress.

University-hosted activities

Many colleges host stress relief events during final exams, offering activities like therapy dogs, free food, and relaxation techniques.

Self-Care Ideas

Dedicate time to self-care activities that make you feel good, whether it’s taking a long bath, using essential oils, or enjoying a favorite hobby.

Seek Help When Needed

Don’t hesitate to utilize on-campus mental health services or visit the counseling center if you’re dealing with high levels of stress or mental health issues. Seeking professional guidance is an important step toward better mental well-being.

Remember that managing stress is an essential skill that can have a positive impact not only on your academic performance but also on your overall quality of life. Incorporating these stress relief activities into your college life can help you navigate the challenges of this transformative journey in a healthy and balanced way. Your college years are a great time to develop these stress management techniques, setting the stage for a healthier and happier future.

Need more ideas for college activities for students?

If nothing on the list above seemed interesting to you, here are some additional ideas for activities to help you relax and take care of yourself:

1. Meditate for 10 minutes.
2. Practice deep breathing exercises.
3. Take a nature walk.
4. Try yoga.
5. Read a book for leisure.
6. Take a long bath.
7. Listen to calming music.
8. Write in a journal.
9. Practice positive affirmations.
10. Do a puzzle or brain teaser.
11. Paint or draw.
12. Spend time with a pet.
13. Watch a sunset or sunrise.
14. Declutter your space.
15. Cook a favorite meal.
16. Dance to your favorite music.
17. Attend a support group.
18. Explore a new hobby.
19. Get a massage.
20. Try aromatherapy.
21. Create a vision board.
22. Have a movie night.
23. Take a day trip.
24. Visit a museum or art gallery.
25. Enjoy a picnic in the park.
26. Write a gratitude list.
27. Practice mindfulness meditation.
28. Do a random act of kindness.
29. Complete a DIY project.
30. Visit a botanical garden.
31. Do a digital detox.
32. Watch funny videos online.
33. Try adult coloring books.
34. Have a spa day at home.
35. Attend a live performance.
36. Take a power nap.
37. Explore a new city.
38. Participate in a charity run.
39. Join a book club.
40. Volunteer at a local organization.
41. Write a letter to a friend.
42. Take a scenic drive.
43. Have a photo shoot.
44. Explore a farmers’ market.
45. Visit a library.
46. Try a new restaurant.
47. Take a self-defense class.
48. Try indoor rock climbing.
49. Attend a comedy show.
50. Go camping.
51. Try paddleboarding.
52. Learn a new instrument.
53. Visit an animal shelter.
54. Attend a sporting event.
55. Plan a weekend getaway.
56. Take a bike ride.
57. Try a new fitness class.
58. Visit an art studio.
59. Go fishing.
60. Try a new recipe.
61. Explore a botanical trail.
62. Attend a cultural festival.
63. Take a scenic hike.
64. Try horseback riding.
65. Visit a historic site.
66. Plan a beach day.
67. Attend a craft workshop.
68. Take a road trip with friends.
69. Go to a karaoke night.
70. Try watercolor painting.
71. Visit a planetarium.
72. Take a hot air balloon ride.
73. Try a food truck tasting.
74. Go stargazing.
75. Attend a dance class.
76. Try pottery or ceramics.
77. Have a bonfire.
78. Explore a new coffee shop.
79. Go birdwatching.
80. Try geocaching.
81. Take a scenic train ride.
82. Attend a cooking class.
83. Try a new board game.
84. Go horse racing.
85. Visit an escape room.
86. Take a scenic boat tour.
87. Attend a wine tasting.
88. Try stand-up paddle yoga.
89. Explore a local cave.
90. Attend a photography workshop.
91. Take a scenic helicopter ride.
92. Try snowshoeing (in winter).
93. Attend a theater performance.
94. Go zip-lining.
95. Take a trapeze class.
96. Try ice skating.
97. Visit an observatory.
98. Attend a pottery-throwing class.
99. Go roller skating.
100. Take a scenic train journey.
101. Attend a cooking competition.

Frequently asked questions about stress relief activities for college students.

1. Why are college students so stressed?

College students often face academic pressures, financial concerns, social challenges, and the transition to independence, which can contribute to high-stress levels.

2. What are common signs of stress in college students?

Common signs include increased anxiety, poor sleep, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, and a decline in academic performance.

3. How can college students manage stress during exams?

Managing stress during exams involves techniques like time management, regular study breaks, deep breathing exercises, and maintaining a balanced diet and sleep schedule.

4. What resources are available on campus for managing stress?

Most colleges offer counseling services, mental health support, stress management workshops, and wellness programs to help students cope with stress.

5. How can college students balance academics and self-care?

Balancing academics and self-care involves effective time management, setting priorities, and recognizing the importance of self-care for overall well-being.

6. What are some healthy coping strategies for college-related stress?

 Healthy coping strategies include exercise, meditation, journaling, seeking social support, and practicing relaxation techniques.

7. Is it common for college students to experience burnout?

Yes, college students often experience burnout due to academic and social pressures. Recognizing burnout and taking steps to address it is essential for well-being.

8. How can college students manage financial stress?

Managing financial stress involves creating a budget, exploring financial aid options, seeking part-time employment, and accessing financial counseling services.

9. Is stress in college students a serious issue?

Yes, stress in college students can have serious physical and mental health implications. It’s crucial to address stress and seek support when needed.

10. Are there online resources for college students to learn stress management techniques?

 Yes, there are many online resources, including articles, videos, and apps, that provide stress management techniques tailored to college students.

11. How can parents support their collegebound children in managing stress?

 Parents can support their children by maintaining open communication, encouraging self-care, and offering emotional support while respecting their independence.

12. What is the relationship between stress and academic performance in college?

 High levels of stress can negatively impact academic performance by affecting concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.

13. What steps can colleges take to promote student well-being and reduce stress?

 Colleges can promote well-being by offering mental health services, stress management programs, academic support, and creating a supportive campus culture.

14. Are there support groups for college students dealing with stress?

 Yes, many colleges offer support groups where students can connect with peers facing similar challenges and learn effective coping strategies.

15. How can college students address social stressors, such as peer pressure or homesickness?

 Addressing social stressors involves seeking support from friends, participating in campus activities, and utilizing campus counseling services.