Most people experience headaches, often due to triggers related to their age, gender, health and overall lifestyle. College students are no different. In fact, these young and seemingly healthy individuals often lead lifestyles that put them at a high risk for headaches and migraines. Whether it be the late night hours trying to finish reading assignments, staring at their computer screens for hours on end, balancing diets, health and professional/personal responsibilities and all the stress from various outlets; things can get a little overwhelming.
To ensure college students make this the best time of their lives, The National Headache Foundation (NHF) has prepared a list of tips for college students to ensure they get the best possible experience with the anticipation of keeping migraines at a low.
Here are a few:
- Take frequent breaks in between studying periods.
This is great for overall memory performance and this gives you a break from eye straining activities such as looking at a small printed book for hours or staring at your computer. Taking a 20 minute break can do wonders for your stress and headaches.
- Go out for a walk/jog.
Getting frequent exercise breaks and a smell of fresh air allows you to step away, relax and refocus.
- Sleep.
With all the school and social responsibilities, it is easy to develop an inconsistent sleep schedule. Try to fall asleep and wake up at the same time everyday with the appropriate 7-9 hours to make sure you feel fresh and ready to go the next day!
If you can, sneak in a nap here and there. It allows you to quickly recharge the battery before class or dinner!
- Plan ahead.
Before going to sleep plan out your schedule for the next day to avoid any unexpected plans that will increase your stress levels.
If you’re already having a stressful day and then come into class to realize a big assignment is due Friday and you haven’t even started it; it will probably sky rocket your stress levels.
- Meet up with friends.
Either to study, go exercise, catch a bite, see a football game or just to hang out at home over a movie. Being able to talk and get your mind off your stresses with close friends is a huge help.
It is usually beneficiary for all parties involved by allowing everyone to voice their stress and creates a unity between friends that makes them know they’re not alone and they always have someone in their corner.
- Be Proactive.
If you have a history of frequent headache and migraine attacks, let your academic adviser and teachers know at the beginning of the semester. This allows you to be open and honest at the very beginning and avoids any unnecessary stress by feeling guilty for missing class for your health.
College is an incredible part of your life, but it could be difficult to manage with all the new responsibilities and stresses. By keeping in mind these few tips it could go a long way towards minimizing the impact of migraine and headaches.