When students need relief from pressure, they might go drinking rather than for a jog. But such unhealthy alternatives ultimately compound stress, Dr. Miller said, while healthy options provide a physical and emotional bounty that can last a lifetime. Students also should develop a support structure. Loving family and friends can go a long way toward adding balance to life, Dr. Miller noted, adding that students new to a campus should particularly seek out new relationships to preclude loneliness and isolation. Students whose stress is overwhelming despite their best efforts should seek professional help.
College campuses have resources to meet students' physical and emotional health needs.