Many students are only taking remote classes when they never intended to. This was an unexpected change for most students, and as a result, it’s very stressful. According to The Beacon, 75 percent of college students are more stressed or anxious because of online learning. This stress from online classes is something students will need to continue to adjust to, given that the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing.
There are many stressors that come with online learning that were not a part of in-person learning. A stressor that is especially prominent for students who are working from their home setting is the lack of quiet space. A need for silence would not ordinarily be a problem in a classroom setting.
One way to try and eliminate this problem is to block out outside noise. Students are encouraged to use a pair of headphones during class, as well as when studying or completing general course work, according to Niche.
Many professors also do not have experience with online teaching, which means that professors are still learning how to use the technology needed to have classes run smoothly online. Normal classes might not be held and communication between students and the professor may lack.
One way to deal with this particular problem is to “connect with your instructors regularly,” according to Saint Leo University. Talking to professors about potential fears regarding the class as well as new semester circumstances is a way to alleviate some stress when taking a new course. Connecting with professors is also useful to ask questions about the class and test knowledge of the material.
Feelings of isolation are also common since there are fewer opportunities to socialize. According to Saint Leo, talking to fellow peers allows students to both feel connected and see that they are not the only ones who feel lonely or who feel no sense of direction in a class. By reaching out to peers, students can talk and work with others on assignments which is a good way to socialize and stay on track academically.
To deal with the stress and anxiety of online school, students can also attend therapy. Finding and attending appointments for a therapist can be both mentally and financially very difficult; however, the effects of speaking to a professional are significant for one’s health. Geneseo offers free counseling services that students can use. There are also mental health applications that can be useful tools if one cannot afford therapy and they are not on campus. According to Verywell Mind, the eight best mental health apps are Moodfit, MoodMission, Talkspace, Sanvello, Headspace, Happify, Depression CBT Self-Help Guide and Shine.
Being an online college student during a pandemic is very challenging, and it is a new experience that students must continue to adjust to. Many issues continue to arise. Students need to find effective solutions that help them personally since not every solution works for every person. No one is alone during this time, and there are ways to get through online classes.