Understanding Stress
Stress is a natural response to pressures, and most students will experience it at some point during their studies. Things such as deadlines, exams, work commitments, finances, and life changes can all contribute to feeling stressed.
While some stress can help to motivate us, stress that is ongoing and consistent can begin to affect our wellbeing, mental health, and ability to cope with everyday life.
Stress is something most of us experience from time to time. Recognising the signs early and taking small steps to manage stress can help prevent it from becoming overwhelming.
Signs of stress
You may notice:
🌪️ Feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried
🧠 Difficulty concentrating
🌙 Changes in sleep or appetite
😟 Feeling irritable, anxious or emotional
🤕 Physical symptoms such as headaches or fatigue
🔌 Finding it harder to relax or switch off
Watch our video about stress management
In this video, Cade from the BPP Wellbeing Team discusses stress, how it can affect students, and some practical ways to manage it.
Small actions can help reduce stress and improve your sense of control.
🗣️ Talk to someone you trust
🌬️ Use breathing or relaxation techniques
🚶 Stay physically active
🧩 Break large tasks into manageable steps
📅 Create a realistic routine
🎯 Focus on what you can control
Quick Stress Reset
Feeling overwhelmed right now? Try one of these simple actions:
✨ Take five slow, deep breaths
✨ Step away from your screen for ten minutes
✨ Write down your top three priorities for today
✨ Reach out to a friend, family member or classmate
Guided Relaxation Exercise
Try this NHS relaxation exercise to help calm stress, reduce tension and improve your sense of wellbeing.
Watch Relaxation Video
Spectrum Life: Be Calm Series
The Be Calm Series offers guided relaxation, stress management tools, mindfulness exercises and wellbeing resources to help you manage pressure and build resilience.
Explore Be Calm
Support at BPP
If stress is affecting your wellbeing, studies, or day-to-day life, we are here to help.
The BPP Wellbeing Team can offer personalised wellbeing support and advice, help you explore practical coping strategies, and signpost or refer you to appropriate internal or external support services.