Prioritize Daily Prayer

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. — 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18

During your day-to-day hustle, make room for quality one-on-one time with God. You’re going to need His help and guidance in all things you do, like keeping a clear head during exams, choosing a major that makes best use of your talents, navigating relationships, staying true to your faith, and more. Pick a prayer time that you’re most likely to stick to, and make use of bible-based resources like devotionals for college students and prayer journals. 

Take Advantage of Christian Tech

In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. — Proverbs 3:6

God provides us with many resources that help us stay connected to Him. There are apps for everything, so why not install one or two that can support you in the faith? There are online bibles, including audio versions, so you can keep up with daily reading while on the go. You can also find inspirations from Proverbs, access to Christian podcasts, and more. 

Find Faith-Based Friend Groups

 Do not be deceived: Bad company ruins good morals. — 1 Corinthians 15:33

It’s great to make new friends in college, just make sure that you’re looking in the right places. If you’re thinking about joining a club or two, find out if there are any Christian options, like a bible study group. If not, maybe you can create one of your own, or hit up social media to see if you can connect with other Christian college students online or in your area.  

Stay Connected with the Church

Not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. — Hebrews 10:25

Unless you’re going to college locally, you probably won’t be attending your family church regularly during the school year. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t stay connected with your home church. Visit when you can and stay in touch with your church family as much as possible. You can also find a local church to attend while you’re away. 

Lean on The Teachings of The Lord

 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. — Matthew 6:33 

While you’re cramming your head for exams, don’t neglect to fill your heart, too! Going to college for the first time comes with all kinds of challenges—mentally, physically, and spiritually—and the teachings of Christ provide the support that you need. He helps you make wise decisions, to stand up for your beliefs despite opposition, and to remain true to who you are in Christ despite all temptations to the contrary. 

Consider Christian Counseling in Raleigh, NC

When going through times of transition, remember that you serve a God who knows just how to get His people to where they are meant to be. Stay true to Him, and He will be your greatest friend and mentor during a time in your life that sets the stage for your entire future. He can also lead you to brothers and sisters in Christ who can help. 

If you want some extra support adjusting to college life, consider teaming up with Christian therapists in Raleigh, NC. Sojourner Counseling is a local group of professional Christian counselors that help college students find faith-based solutions for life’s challenges. Contact us anytime to learn more about Christian counseling in Raleigh, and how we can ease your transition from high school to college. 

The post Back to School: Christian Advice for College Freshman first appeared on Sojourner Counseling.

The post Back to School: Christian Advice for College Freshman appeared first on Sojourner Counseling.

Rest Up Before College

You have a lot going on right now, so it can be easy to forego a good night’s sleep. Before long, you will notice that a lack of sleep makes it more difficult to keep up with it all, and once classes start, you’ll deal with a whole host of stress-causing problems. Difficulty focusing, irritability, and even depression can result. So, it’s best to prioritize sleep ahead of time, and go ahead and establish a nighttime routine while you’re at it—one less thing to adjust to on your first day! 

Eat Brain-Boosting Foods 

College students are notorious for bad eating habits. As understandable and common as it might be, it’s a surefire way to weaken your body, and by extension make it difficult to deal with stress. Do your best to consume brain-powering foods, like fish, broccoli, berries, nuts, and even dark chocolate. 

Exercise Regularly

Did you know that stress builds in your body, leading to muscle and joint pain, difficulty concentrating, and more? Not only will exercise make you feel great when done regularly, it is a natural and effective cure for some of these common side effects of stress. You can have fun with it, too. Find an exercise routine that is simple and enjoyable, so you can stick to it and be glad that you did. 

Blow Off Some Steam

You’re going to have a lot to manage as a college student, so it’s a good idea to have a stress-relieving activity that can give you a mental break from it all. Maybe you can pursue one of those interests you’ve been thinking about, like music, art, or journaling. 

Organize Your Life

Few things are more stressful than cramming for an exam or completing a complex assignment at the last minute—except maybe missing one altogether. Get ahead of this problem by getting organized. There’s virtually endless ways to task manage, ranging from to-do list apps to old-fashioned planners. You can also have some fun creating a workspace where you can study in peace and quiet. 

Stay Connected 

Going to college is a great time to spread your wings and experience some independence. While you’re out there learning more about who you are, don’t forget to stay connected with the important people in your life. Check in with your family members, make time for friends, and find a local church community that can help you with the difficulties of keeping the faith in college. While it’s great that you’re working hard for a bright future, don’t forget to keep your relationship with God priority. 

Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help in College

Going to college is challenging, so it’s smart to take advantage of any resource that can help you succeed. Lean on your family and friends, instructors, and consider utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor. For example, there are Christian therapists in Raleigh that can help you with any difficulty you’re experiencing while offering bible-based support at a time that can make young Christians feel pressure because of their faith. 

Christian Counseling in Raleigh, NC Can Help College Students Manage Stress

Are you a college student that’s interested in Christian counseling in Raleigh? Get help managing stress and anxiety, spiritual concerns, and more at Sojourner Counseling. We provide safe, compassionate counseling that’s tailored to the unique needs of each person we meet with. Whether you just want to chat or would benefit from proven therapeutic methods mingled with the power of the faith, give us a call to learn more!

The post Back to School: Navigate School Stress as a College Student first appeared on Sojourner Counseling.

The post Back to School: Navigate School Stress as a College Student appeared first on Sojourner Counseling.