Innovative stress workshop to relax the mind and body

The ETSU Counseling Center is hosting a Stress GPS workshop to help students learn more about stress and techniques for reducing it in the future.

Stress GPS, with GPS standing for gaining practical skills, is an innovative skills-based workshop focused on learning tools for coping with the stress and anxiety that comes with college. 

The workshop will be held on Feb. 26 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in Rogers-Stout Hall, room 124. Students can register for the workshop through the ETSU calendar using the keyword stress. 

“The goal is to expand their knowledge of stress management skills and increase their emotional well-being by practicing strategies to calm their mind and body as a way to manage emotional distress,” said Natalie Wigle, staff counselor and general outreach coordinator

College students tend to have fully-booked schedules and harsh deadlines, and many have to have jobs to live comfortably. With all that goes into getting a degree, students can build up their stress levels, and it can be easy to fall behind or quit altogether. These practical skills can not only help students in the moment, but also for the remainder of their college career and after graduation. 

The Counseling Center adapted the skills presentation a couple of years ago, and it has been one of the most requested workshops by students since. Wigle and Erica Callahan, the general outreach graduate assistant, will be hosting the event. 

Wigle explains that the session will consist of the stress workshop and a chance for personalized questions and discussions. Snacks and proof of attendance will also be provided.

“Participants will explore the role of stress, learn how the body responds to stress, identify personal stress triggers, practice techniques for self-soothing/relaxation, experience the benefit of positive emotions, experience increased social connection, learn how to block schedule as a method of self-management and organization and students can receive campus resources,” said Wigle.

For more information, contact the Counseling Center at ccoutreach@etsu.edu or Callahan at callahane@etsu.edu.