Field Journal Entry Coping

Field Journal Entry-
Coping
Among the most constant and most influential stressors in my life, lies school, specifically assignment deadlines and exams. Previously, I had “priority” classes, which I held higher than others and worked my hardest on them. Lately, however, all eight of my classes have become “priority,” adding to my stress. No longer do I have a class in which I can take my time for all of them require my utmost and undivided attention and effort if I am to keep my grades. And, since, an increase in stress can have negative side effects in the long run, managing and decreasing my stress levels is now one of my top priorities, topping my classes. According to the University of Michigan, one of these skills is time management. Because I have several classes and projects, homeworks, etc. within all those classes, creating an organized calendar and schedule is vital. However, it is important to know the schedule must be realistic and include other activities besides studying and working on homework. For example, composing a schedule solely of school responsibilities will overwhelm and stress me further. This would happen because of my inability to meet my goals. Hence, adding breaks and time for other activities, such as sports, will
Making further lifestyle change will allow me to manage this. Melissa Cohen, a clinical social worker, further adds increasing sleep time reduces stress. Exercising regularly to release tension works as well to relieve stress. She also states eating correctly can help reduce stress. Furthermore, not consuming stimulants such as caffeine is recommended as they increase stress response. Another strategy to decrease my test anxiety and, hence, reduce my overall stress, is to find new way to study and implement those. For example, using flashcards instead of just re-reading notes may help to feel better prepares (Cohen, Student