Students (especially at a university level) are expected to succeed with their studies. Expectations are placed upon them by the schools, their parents, and themselves. Sometimes all of the pressure placed can have detrimental repercussions in regards to their mental health and development.

The pressure of their studies alone can bring large mounts of stress to their life. Add in all the other stress that comes from outside sources when not in class such as relationships, necessities for survival and money, and the added up stress can push a student towards the brink of mental breakdown.

Heretohelp.com noted tha a recent Canadian study involving directors of college and university counselling centres reported and agreed that 90% of students presented abnormal psychological issues - increased over the last five years. Among the various examples noted were increased personality disturbances, high distress levels, and psychiatric histories.

Futhermore, fears relating to a students personal safety can also lead to high amounts of stress. Traditionally this centerd largely around sexually transmitted diseases and assualt; but recently added are now those brought forth by the terrorist attacks of 9'11 and campus attacks like those of Varginia Tech, Northern Illinoois, and Dawson College in Montreal.

However not all hope is lost, there are things that students can do to help better their chances at receiving a high grade and limiting the amount of school induced stress they succumb to.

One of the biggest areas of a students life that can potentially lead to high stress amounts is unhealthy relationships with partners, friends etc. Students will benefit from disassociating themselves from all negative energy that makes it's way into their life. Negative problems with friends and partners will eventually take its toll on a students health and show in their marks.

During studies another useful stress reducer is eliminating noise. We all know how difficult it can be to concentrate on something when our ears are filled with music or the loud sound of life unfolding around us. Find a quiet and peaceful place where concentration can operate at its full potential.

Avoiding the usage of alcohol and recreational drugs is probably the smartest decision any student can make. These substances will only lead to negative outcomes with work, school and relationships. There's nothing wrong with enjoying the social life school offers but when the drinking and partying spiral out of control a students life is bound for disaster. Knowing when and where to draw the social line is imperative for a student to live a balanced and motivating existence.

As a student, planning ahead is extremely beneficial in establishing good grades. Leaving projects and term papers to the last minute will only lead to anxiety as you rush last minute to throw something together. A good way to plan your schedule is by utilizing the benefits of a day planner. Being organized and knowing exactly what you have to do day to day will make your student life a whole lot simpler.

Eliminating and reducing the consumption of caffeine is something all students should strive to do. Although caffeine is a stimulant and keeps you "wired" it can pose negative effects on your health when constantly ingested in large amounts. Especially with all the energy drinks on the market today it's not hard to consume large doses of caffeine. Many students put their health at an even greater risk by mixing these energy drinks with alcohol and other drugs. Alternatives to caffeine should be considered such as juice, water, or tea. As well, smoking even though it may seem to be a relaxant will only put you in an over-stimulated state. Avoid nicotine and don't get into the habit of smoking if you haven't started.

1. Take advantage of day planners to help prioritize and balance your schedule.
2. Try prioritizing your activities from important to not so important.
3. Attempt to follow a "to do list" which can be carried around with you throughout the day for easy reference.
4. Choose to take part in activities that will benefit your education. If parties and hanging with friends needs to be overlooked for a night then so be it.
5. Take naps throughout the day. Power napping is a great way to rejuvenate your mind and body for hours.
6. Don't fill your schedule with endless activities you agreed to commit to. Learning to say no to someone as it is better to say no than to cancel at last minute.
7. Learn to make good use of your time by studying between classes, on the bus or while on lunch.
8. Make sure to set aside some time for yourself as too much time devoted to studying can actually be counterproductive. You must find a balance.
9. Know when your energy levels are at peak and schedule activities requiring more concentration during those times.
10. Finish tasks when you start them. Don't have a hundred different things going on incomplete.