By Teresea Mcmurrin (Whetstone Staff Writer)

With tests, papers, finances and a social life, stress has become a part of the student’s everyday life.

Symptoms of stress include headaches, stomach aches, nausea, irritability, insomnia, and can even result in panic attacks.

Part of Ann Rogge’s job as director of counseling services is to help students deal with stress.

“First, address the issue,” she said. “Avoidance and procrastination will just make the problem and the stress worse.”

She said professors understand when a student is overwhelmed.

“If the student communicates with them, they will be able to help, which can alleviate part of the stress,” Rogge said.

Breaking tasks down into manageable pieces by setting short-term goals helps, too. It also helps to get enough sleep, eat healthy and to stay hydrated.

Rogge recommends a deep-breathing exercise.

“Take a deep breath into your lower abdomen,” she said. “Filling it up like it’s a balloon. Hold that for a count of around three, then release the air very slowly. Doing that a few times can clear the head and bring some oxygen in to help the brain work.”

No matter how you deal with it, students should expect stress to be a part of everyday life.

“It affects all of us,” Rogge said. “When it becomes overwhelming, it is OK to ask for help.”

Rogge’s office is located in the student health center. She can be reached by email at roggeann@wesley.edu.