Freshmen are stressed by many things, including separation from family, the need to make many new decisions, steeper competition among peers and peer pressure to try drugs, drinking and sex.
Stress can exhibit itself in many forms, including a generalized anxiety, depression or irritability; frequent fatique; insomnia; loss of appetite; and nightmares.
Stress can lead to decreased productivity, which frequently exacerbates the stress, precipitating a downward spiral.
According to a poll in the Los Angeles Times, college freshmen in 2000 were twice as stressed as college freshman in 1985. Women were twice as likely to feel stressed as men, but 30 percent of all freshmen said they felt "frequently overwhelmed by all I have to do."
According to the University of Florida's counseling center, stress can be prevented by maintaining a balanced lifestyle, in which you receive an adequate amount of food, sleep, exercise and recreation. Discussing your problems with a trusted friend and developing relaxation techniques can also be helpful.