People have different ways of dealing with stress.

I, for example, do my best to focus on my tasks. I feel that there's no point in dwelling on the misery of being stressed - after all, it's not like doing that will alleviate my stress any. If I have work to do, then the sooner I finish it, the sooner I can be rid of the dark cloud of pressure hanging over me.

I admit that it doesn't always work, though. There have been times when I'd just stop whatever it is I'm supposed to be doing and then just space out. It's seductive to just let go and stare at nothing for a while, especially when you've got a major headache. Psychologists say that this sort of thing is healthy.

When your mind feels overloaded, sometimes there isn't anything else to be done other than to just zone out. Call it mental stretching. You just have to unwind the tension that's tightening in your head.

Thankfully, it does work. When you feel completely down for the count, try unclenching your mental fists.

Sit back and just breathe.

Freeing yourself from the domination of stress can be applied in many ways. The varied cultures and belief systems of the world each have their own methods of stress release. For some people, it's as simple as what I said above. For others, it can involve measured meditation.

There are those, of course, who release their stress through concentrated physical activity. Don't forget, though, that a modicum of faith can help deal with stress. Prayer is one of the most effective means of relaxation, after all.

Whatever your method, the point is that you should stop using your mind for a while. Stress comes from overexerted thought. Your mind is much like your body's muscles - once it begins to ache beyond tolerance, it would be prudent to give it a break. Either do something else, or do nothing at all for a while.

The most important thing to remember: stress comes and goes. No matter how heavy things may seem, understand that the feeling will pass. So take it easy. Being in a college environment can be a bit testy at times, but know that you'll make it through.

Just breathe.

[First published by Perspective, DLSU - College of St. Benilde]