School, work, lack of sleep add up to stress

Feb. 17, 2011

Dear Courtney,
    I feel like all I do is school, work, homework, sleep, repeat. Even my weekends have turned into homework, work, try to catch up on sleep. I don't have much of a social life anymore because I just don't have the time for it. I feel like I'm working to pay my school bills, and I'm in school to make more money; however, I may never make it there from lack of sleep. I feel like it's a vicious cycle that I just can't get out of. What can I do?
Sincerely,
Seriously Stressed in Peru

Dear Stressed,
   Sounds like you are a very busy individual! You should be extremely proud of yourself for all of your hard work; your hard work to pay your bills, and your hard work in your school work. While I can only imagine how chaotic of a period of time in your life this is for you right now, it is extremely important to remember to not burn yourself out. All work, little sleep, and no down time can add even more stress, to your body as well as your mind.
   Stop to take a breather now and then. Sit down with a date planner/ calendar/ something and manage your time so that you can squeeze some extra time in there for me-time, even if it is only a little bit of time each day. If you ever feel too stressed, make sure you talk to someone; mental stress can lead to physical ailments if attention is not given to it.  
    Good luck with your semester and I hope life lets up on you a little bit!

Dear Courtney,
    I have this friend. We have been best buds since we were in the third grade. We do everything together; play sports, video games, take vacations together, etc. We are both set to graduate this spring. We had both planned on going to Western Illinois University, and of course rooming together. But then "she" happened.
    He's been dating "Tracy" for 3 months now, and I hardly ever see him anymore. He makes no time for anyone else, and when he does come around, she's with him. She does not care for me, or any of mine and "Peter's" friends, and she has no problems letting him and all of us know it. Well "Peter" texted me yesterday and said we need to talk. Evidently she wants to transfer to Western now as well, and they want to get a place off-campus together. We are supposed to be moving at the end of the semester; we already have our room paperwork turned in! How could he do this to me, leaving me in the lurch? I am not sure what I should say to him because the only thing that comes to mind is that "Tracy" needs to get lost. HELP!
Sincerely,
Ticked Off in Oglesby

Dear Ticked Off,
     It's hard when our best friend starts getting serious with a significant other. We feel put on the back burner and replaced. "Peter" is not helping the situation by ignoring his friends, but as a best friend, you have to be willing to make room for "Tracy", as she is obviously someone that is very important to your friend.
     It is a shame in the manner that "Peter" chose to tell you about the new living arrangements, as you two already had plans to live together. I can tell you that stewing about it and making him feel guilty for his decision will not benefit either of you. If you think it would be beneficial to talk to "Peter" about the way you feel, then I suggest you set him down and discuss with him how his actions have made you feel; that while you would like to be happy for him, you would also like to feel that you are an important part of his life. I also suggest that you start looking for a new roommate.  
     As much as that will stink, you would not want "Peter" to live with you now, after you know his heart is set on living with "Tracy."
     I am very sorry to hear how this has all played out for you, but I wish you the best of luck; with "Peter, with finding a new roommate, and with "Tracy."