Everyone experiences stress throughout their life. During their time at university, students experience significant change and a range of unfamiliar situations. These can cause them to experience different types of stress to that which they have experienced previously. The transition from school/college to university is a major factor in this and, as an Academic Tutor, your role may require you to support your students though these changes.
Typical causes of stress for university students include:
Personal – Illness; bereavement; additional responsibilities, homesickness
Relational – starting a new relationship/ getting married; relationship breakdown; family issues; young carers or other caring responsibilities.
Work and Study – exam preparation and sitting; assignment deadlines; societies / sporting club commitments;
Housing – Poor housing conditions; moving to a new house; neighbours, housemates; landlords
Financial – debt / budgeting; late loans; travel expenses.
While most people suffer from stress, its symptoms can differ from person to person and can present themselves physically, emotionally, or behaviourally. Physical symptoms include tiredness, headaches, stomach upset, panic attacks, chest pains and dizziness. Emotional symptoms typically include spontaneous and intense episodes of emotional reactions for example: anger, aggression, anxiousness, low mood, tearfulness, withdrawal. Behavioural symptoms include indecision, nail biting, restlessness, self-harm, changes in weight, signs of self-medication.
Most tutors will encounter students suffering from one or more of these symptoms, and stress is common within the student body. Indeed, being stressed at certain times is a normal part of the university experience for many students. When the stress starts to become overwhelming, that’s when the student needs additional help and support. If you suspect one of your tutees is suffering from stress, you may feel inclined to help them, but should do so only if you have the time and skills needed to help the student and can offer practical advice after listening to the student’s concerns. Although you might feel inclined to help the student, the student may not want you to help. In this case, reassure the student that you will help them if they decide that they do want help and report the interaction to the Wellbeing Team.
Only ever work within your limits when dealing with a distressed student. If you do not feel comfortable or confident in what you are doing seek advice and support, to continue can impact on the student you are trying to help and on yourself. If you are unsure about what help a student needs, then seek advice from a colleague or from the Wellbeing team.