Stress is inevitable, and it’s not going away after graduation. Nearly 75 percent of college students feel stressed, according to the College Student Journal. It’s a feeling we know all too well.
We’re quick to blame our busy schedules, but research suggests that bloodshot eyes, addiction to power naps and those caffeine cravings could have more to do with your genetic makeup than your course load. 
CNN reported that a recent study analyzed connections between genes, job satisfaction and stress levels. The conclusion? Personality plays a significant role and nearly 45 percent of personality traits are associated with genetic configuration. Perhaps we can justifiably blame our parents for this one.
I know what you’re thinking. In two sentences, I completely demoralized your optimism to ever conquer stress and that being stressed-out forever is inescapable, but take a deep breath and let me explain.
Having this knowledge is beneficial. If we recognize how our personalities influence our reaction to stress, we can devise more suitable strategies to not only survive, but thrive in the daily life-school-work balance. It’s true, we can’t control everything, but we can dictate our perceptions, thoughts and behaviors with the right methods.
Remember to breathe
This sounds like a no-brainer, but think about it. When we’re nervous or under stress, our breaths become faster, which raises blood pressure and strains our cardiovascular system. Deep inhales and exhales bring oxygen to the brain and stimulate the release of stress-relieving hormones dopamine and serotonin, an article in the Women’s Health Advisor explained. Try the four-four-eight technique: inhale and count to four, hold that breath in for four and then exhale for eight. Conscious breathing has immediate uplifting effects.
Force a smile
Smiling through a problem may have validity. People experience less stress when involved in an anxiety provoking task when they smile, a recent Psychological Science study found. A genuine grin is preferred, but even forcing one can help you breeze through a stressful situation. 
Don’t over-commit
We always expect to have more time in the future than we have in the present, American Psychological Association Research shows, which often results in broken commitments or unfinished tasks. To counteract this, avoid scheduling too much into one day. Balance your school and to-do list with some leisure time. Also, set clear priorities. Completing something you’ve been avoiding will immediately alleviate tension.
Develop two lists
Instead of focusing on a to-do list that only incorporates tasks you must complete, make another with things you’re psyched for during the week. An optimistic mindset for exciting events to come will minimize the stress of monotonous homework assignments and errands. It’s all about the attitude you bring to the situation.
Make time for relationships
An unhealthy relationship can be just as stressful as a job or school. Relationships provide relief by not leaving you to face every burden completely on your own, a social worker and therapist told Live Better America magazine. Plan time to spend with friends, family or coworkers. They know your personality the best and can offer advice or a listening ear that will brighten a seemingly hopeless situation.
Nicole Soyka can be reached at soyk9466@stthomas.edu.