To understand how college students managed stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic,
we surveyed more than 300 students at a large public university in central Europe. We use
an instrument designed to recover stress management techniques, as well as personality traits
and habits associated with stress and stress management. We identify 16 stress management
techniques used during the COVID-19 pandemic; meditation or breathing exercises were most
commonly reported. Academically outstanding students, compared with average or struggling
students, are more likely to use physical activity, journaling/to-do lists, and less likely to come
in contact with friends and family, to manage stress during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue Reading