Being a college athlete can make school more fun. Being involved in athletics also can be a good way to relax and decrease stress. At the same time, during competition athletes are expected to perform at high levels of competence in stressful situations. Athletes undergo a high level of pressure, which only adds on to everyday school demands and frustrations. Some athletes become overloaded with stress. When this happens, inadequately managed stress can lead to anxiety, withdrawal, aggression, and physical illness.
II. Body.
School vs. Athletic Stress.
Students react to college in a variety of ways. For some students, college is stressful because it is an abrupt change from high school. For others, separation from home is a source of stress. Although some stress is necessary for personal growth to occur, the amount of stress can overwhelm a student and affect the ability to cope. .
CAUSES OF STRESS IN STUDENTS.
Not enough money Academic Achievement(tests, grades,deadlines, etc.).
Unrealistic expectations Time urgency - too muchwork/pressures.
Social pressures Change in eating andsleeping habits.
Extra-curricular activities Stress prone diet i.e. coffee,tea, cola, chocolate,not enough vitaminC & B complex.
Dissatisfaction A break-up with a boy or girlfriend,changing to a new environment/changes in responsibilities.
A part-time or full-time job A bad Roommate or notenough privacy.
Parental Expectations-pressure of "Being Mature" .
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These causes of stress in students only add to the stress of Athletes. Athletes have to cope with the everyday student stresses plus the stresses of athleticism, which include stresses with: making the team, time issues because of team practices, competition, and pressure. .
During college, many students need after class jobs to support themselves. Many have already started families and need the extra money even more. We all know how difficult it is to get adequate sleep in these circumstances.