Anxiety is one of the most common mental health challenges faced by students.

The important thing to remember is that you’re not alone — and there is support available. Understanding what anxiety is, how to recognise it, and knowing when (and how) to seek help can make a huge difference.

Let’s break it down.

What Is Anxiety — And When Does It Become a Problem?

Anxiety is a natural response to stress or perceived danger — it’s part of your body’s built-in “fight or flight” system. In small doses, it can even be helpful, giving you the focus to prepare for an exam or stay alert in a challenging situation.

However, anxiety becomes problematic when:

• It feels constant, even when there’s no clear reason.
• It’s out of proportion to the situation.
• It starts to impact your studies, relationships, sleep, or ability to enjoy daily life.

For some people, anxiety can develop into a recognised condition, such as Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD), social anxiety, panic disorder, or specific phobias.

College life can sometimes mask these symptoms — it’s easy to dismiss ongoing anxiety as “just stress” or think that everyone else is coping better. But recognising when anxiety is more than just a passing feeling is the first step towards managing it effectively.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety doesn’t look the same for everyone. It can show up as emotional, physical, or behavioural symptoms — sometimes all at once. Here are some of the most common signs to look out for:

Physical Symptoms:

• A racing heart or palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling light-headed or dizzy
• Muscle tension or headaches
• Stomach issues, nausea, or needing the toilet more often
• Sweating or trembling
• Difficulty sleeping or constant fatigue

Emotional and Cognitive Symptoms:

• Persistent worry or a sense of dread
• Feeling on edge, restless, or easily startled
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling your mind “go blank”
• Overthinking or imagining worst-case scenarios
• Feeling irritable or emotionally overwhelmed

Behavioural Signs:

• Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety (e.g., social events, presentations)
• Withdrawing from friends or activities
• Procrastination due to fear of failure
• Using alcohol, drugs, or other coping mechanisms to “numb” feelings

If you recognise some of these symptoms in yourself, it’s important to remember that anxiety is not a personal failing. It’s a common mental health issue — and like any health issue, it deserves attention and care.

When Should You Seek Support?

It’s easy to think, “I just need to get through this week” or “It’ll pass once exams are over.” But if anxiety is affecting your wellbeing, academic performance, or relationships, reaching out for support sooner rather than later can prevent things from getting worse.

You should consider seeking help if:

• You feel anxious most days and it’s been ongoing for several weeks.
• Your anxiety is stopping you from doing things you’d normally manage.
• You’re experiencing panic attacks or physical symptoms regularly.
• You’re finding it hard to manage day-to-day tasks because of constant worry.
• You’re using unhealthy coping strategies to deal with how you’re feeling.

You don’t have to wait until things feel unbearable — early support can help you develop strategies to manage anxiety before it escalates.

What Support Is Available?

You don’t have to face anxiety alone. There are a range of support options available, many of which are designed specifically for students:

1. University Wellbeing Services

Most universities offer free counselling, wellbeing workshops, or mental health support services. These teams are experienced in helping students deal with anxiety and other challenges linked to student life.

2. Talk to Your GP

If anxiety is persistent or severe, speaking to a doctor is a good step. They can offer medical advice, discuss treatment options such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and refer you to appropriate services.

3. Online Resources and Helplines

• Student Space — Offers dedicated mental health support for students, including text, phone, and email services.
• Student Minds — The UK’s student mental health charity with peer support programmes and resources.
• Mind — Provides information on anxiety and mental health support.
• Samaritans — Available 24/7 if you need someone to talk to.

4. Peer Support

Talking to friends, flatmates, or trusted coursemates can help you feel less isolated. You might be surprised how many people understand exactly what you’re going through.

Practical Tips to Manage Anxiety Day-to-Day

While professional support is key, there are also small, everyday actions that can help you manage anxiety:

• Establish a routine — Structure can create a sense of control.
• Practice mindfulness or breathing exercises — These can calm your body’s stress response.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol — Both can increase feelings of anxiety.
• Stay active — Regular movement can help regulate mood.
• Get enough sleep — Poor sleep and anxiety often fuel each other.
• Be kind to yourself — Recognise that managing anxiety is a process, not something you “fix” overnight.

Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone

Anxiety is common, especially during the university years when life feels full of change, pressure, and uncertainty. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean you have to struggle in silence.

Recognising the signs and taking steps to seek support shows strength — not weakness. With the right help and strategies, anxiety can be managed, and you can regain a sense of calm and control in your life.

If anything in this article resonates with you, consider reaching out — whether that’s to a friend, a university support service, or a professional. The first step is often the hardest, but it’s also the most important.