Coping with Conflict
Posted on 01.30.10 by Libby
By: Leslie Perk
In addition to grueling schedules of homework, work, internships, and extracurricular activities, we often confront difficult situations during our college years. A family member can become sick, a friend may fall into depression, a girl in your sorority may suddenly experience a serious eating disorder, etc.
For me, it was my best friend’s unexpected adverse reaction to prescription medication that brought me great stress. One Sunday as I was traveling back to the University of Iowa after a relaxing weekend at home, I received a most upsetting phone call. My best friend Lauren had experienced a negative reaction to a prescription medication, which caused her to fall into a coma. The doctors could not determine when, or even if, she would wake up. If Lauren did wake up, it was possible that she could have permanent brain damage. I tried to understand the situation, but it felt so surreal.
Fortunately for myself, and for other students going through tough times, there are many resources available that can help you deal with life’s most stressful situations. Use these ideas to help you cope while at school:
Visit your university’s student health clinic: Many schools offer free psychiatric services. If you need to talk to someone, you can schedule a visit with a professional to discuss any problems you may be experiencing, from anxiety to depression to alcohol abuse. Just like any other doctor, your visit is completely confidential.
Contact a free health line: Schools may also offer anonymous phone lines to discuss any personal situation. For example, Iowa hosts a phone line dedicated to helping young women who have been sexually assaulted. Many are open 24 hours a day and help you with short-term counseling. You can even contact the National Mental Health Association at (800)969-6642 for help.
Exercise regularly: When your body is physically healthy, your mental health will improve, allowing you to fight off stress. Aerobic exercise releases endorphins that can make you feel better and happier. Many colleges offer students free or discounted admission at university-owned work out facilities.
Stop smoking or drinking excessive alcohol: Although you may feel that smoking and drinking will help relieve stress, these habits actually contribute to stress. Consuming alcohol induces stress because it stimulates the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands. These glands control moods and emotions, sexuality, and energy storage. Smoking acts as a stimulant and induces more stress as well.
Surround yourself with positive people: When times are difficult, it’s likely that you will feel there are no solutions to your problem. That’s why it’s a good idea to spend time with those people who are always looking on the bright side, and who can help you find the positives in every situation. Spending time with friends can help take your mind off things for a while, and give you that much needed break from reality.
Everyone encounters stressful situations at some point during college, so don’t ever feel that you’re alone. Choosing to confront and deal with your problems is an integral part of growing up and will only make you stronger. You will emerge more confident in yourself, and your new skills will prove beneficial in future situations.
I am happy to say that Lauren has since come out of her coma. She has no brain or speech damage, but she is working hard every day to regain her motor skills. It is truly a miracle! I know that Lauren would not be able to keep her positive attitude without her friends and family’s support, so it is important to realize that our greatest help is our friends and family. We must always keep each other in mind and support one another to make our college experiences the most fulfilling and rewarding they can possibly be.
