College life is a time full of seemingly millions of small transitions. Some thrive in the busyness the semester schedule brings. Others are just waiting for the relief that comes with more down time and fewer obligations during summer and winter breaks. These changes can be anxiety-inducing for others that depend on routines for a sense of groundedness in their lives.
Students will experience a number of other major transitions in their post-college life, so learning how to handle the small ones can be helpful for future experiences. Whether the concern revolves around moving back home to a tense family environment or being isolated from friends for the next few months, there are strategies that can help students cope.
Here are some tips from Psychology Today on how to handle these periods of transition.
1. Acknowledge the good and the bad that exists in the change
It’s never helpful to minimize your feelings about the situation. While you don’t want to dwell on your fears, it’s okay to acknowledge what you will miss. Even amidst the stress of classes, college is a bountiful time for personal growth and the cultivation of relationships. It makes sense some students feel a sense of hesitancy when leaving such an environment.
2. Look for ways to reframe stressful situations
“Stress is in the mind of the beholder,” said Susan Krauss, professor of psychology at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Reframing the situation mentally can help students approach changes with a mindset of conquering difficult situations.
3. Remember the times you’ve previously successfully navigated a transition
The more you do something, the better you are at it. Thinking of other times you have been able to get through a difficult time can remind you that you are capable of doing it and you will be okay afterwards.
