How to combat stress when studying

Stress is the feeling of being under too much mental or emotional pressure. When you are stressed, your body releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol.

Stress is your body’s reaction to help you deal with pressure or threats. This is sometimes called a "fight or flight" response.

Millions around the UK experience stress and it is damaging to our health and wellbeing. A small amount of stress can be useful. It can motivate you to take action and get tasks completed. It can also make you feel alive and excited. But too much stress can cause negative effects such as a change in your mood, your body and relationship issues.

So, what's the connection between stress and ADHD?

ADHD presents ongoing challenges that can make stress and frustration become out of control. You can learn skills to deal more effectively or minimize stress. Here are some areas to consider:

Develop relaxation techniques:

Learn techniques for meditation or relaxation. Biofeedback may also be useful to help monitor your level of stress and how you respond to it.

Remove stressors when appropriate:

Some stressors can simply be removed or avoided altogether. For example, for a child with ADHD, you may want to schedule playdates with only one other child and monitor the play closely. A teen or adult may want to cut back on extra activities during stressful times.

Take control of your life wherever you can:

This can be especially helpful to children and teens who often feel a lack of control over their ADHD. Older children and teens, for example, should be part of any school planning team that reviews the student's educational needs and plans. Adults may want to learn how to make ADHD-friendly career choices or ask for help to lessen stressors in the workplace.

Maintain overall health:

Staying healthy helps you manage ADHD better and also helps your body respond more readily to any extra stress. Children, teens, and adults with ADHD can all take these steps to maintain health:

• Minimize your intake of caffeine or nicotine.

• Eat a balanced diet.

• Exercise regularly.

• Get enough sleep.

• Avoid alcohol.