Ngā Anipā | Anxiety & Stress
Anxiety and stress are both normal human emotions that we will experience during our lives. Feelings of anxiety occur when we are faced with uncertainty or threat. Many of us may associate anxiety with feelings of worry, fear and nervousness. Similar to anxiety, feelings of stress can occur when we feel threatened or experience an increase in demand. This triggers our bodies fight, flight or freeze response, which is great in an emergency but not so much when this is a regular occurrence. When experienced at high levels for long periods both anxiety and stress can lead to feelings of distress and can increase the likelihood of us becoming unwell.
If you are concerned about yourself please get in touch with your GP or alternatively you can speak with a Student Care advisor who will help you to identify appropriate supports and refer on as needed.
If you would like to access in person support or read about the services available.
If you are concerned about someone you know.
Strategies for managing anxiety & stress
- Try to breathe more slowly and deeply when anxious. Slowly inhale in and count to 3, slowly exhale out and count to 3.
- Practice mindfulness relaxation techniques like mindful eating, mindful colouring, meditation and progress muscle relaxation.
- Stay active. Do a physical activity that you enjoy.
- Give yoga a go. There are some great workouts that you can try to help manage anxiety and stress.
- Allocate yourself “worry time”
- Avoid substances like caffeine, alcohol and cannabis, as these can aggravate anxiety
- Practice good sleep hygiene. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night
- Relax regularly i.e. take a bath, read a book or listen to music
- Talk to a friend or family member about how you are feeling
- Plan ahead. Study tips.
Need More Information?
Anxiety
- Anxiety NZ
- Mental Health Foundation
- Depression.org “Anxiety – What you need to know”
- The Lowdown
- Health Navigator
Printable documents
Stress
- The Fight, Flight and Freeze response
- Health Navigator
- Help Guide – Stress Management
- Help Guide – Quick Stress Relief
- Apps for Anxiety and Stress
- Tips for keeping calm during stressful times
- Aroha chatbot
Printable documents
- Stress and how to Handle it
- Refuelling the tank – fuel in, fuel out
- Reducing the impact of stress
- Relaxation
Need Help?
- Finding support
- 24/7 support
- 24/7 Anxiety Helpline: 0800 269 4389
- The Lowdown, 0800 111 757 or Text 5626
If you require urgent or crisis mental health care please call Crisis Resolution on 0800 920 092 or dial 111.