Affordable Self-Care Tips for When Stress Levels Are High

Because you can’t come and die before you graduate

Written by Miriam Onyemenam

Between chasing deadlines, surviving lecturers and their wahala, and praying for your CGPA to behave itself, stress is practically part of the Nigerian university syllabus. And let’s not lie, self-care often feels like something only rich people with 100-year-old generational wealth can afford. But don’t worry; you don’t need to break the bank to keep your sanity intact. Here are some simple, affordable self-care tips that fit right into your student lifestyle.

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1. Take Short Breaks

Reading for hours without a break? Omo, that’s how people start forgetting their middle name during exams. Try the Pomodoro technique: read for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute breather. During that break, touch grass, stretch, or do anything relaxing.

2. Gist with Your Friends

Sometimes, all you need is one solid “Mehn, school is hard!” rant session with your friends. They’ll remind you you’re not suffering alone. And from random rants, you could find yourselves laughing over TikTok trends or keeping each other updated on campus gist. Those conversations are usually pure therapy.

And if you’re all about gist that’ll keep you going, we’ve got plenty more where that came from. Join our WhatsApp for tips, laughs, and everything in between.

3. Journal

When life starts feeling like Super Story, take a pen and write your thoughts down. No, you don’t need a fancy journal—any notebook or your phone’s notes app will do. Pour out your wahala: bad tests, broken heart, even the annoying hostel roommate who keeps stealing your indomie. Trust me, putting it down makes it feel lighter.

Prompt Idea: Start with, “What’s stressing me today?” or “What’s one thing I’m grateful for?” No pressure, just write like nobody’s marking it.

4. Try Home Workouts

What’s that thing they’re doing at the gym that you can’t do in your room? (well, except for routines that require equipment). The good news is: you can find anything on YouTube–for free. Just 10 minutes of jumping jacks, stretches, or dancing like you’re partying with Big Brother’s housemates on Saturday night can make you feel like a new person.

5. Declutter Your Study Space

A scattered desk equals a scattered brain, simple. Take a few minutes to arrange your books, discard those empty gala wrappers, and make space for your sanity. You’ll feel like you have your life together (even if you don’t).

6. Disconnect from Your Phone (Even if Just for a Bit)

We’re all guilty of scrolling through social media when stressed, but constant notifications and social media drama can actually add to your anxiety. Try setting your phone aside for a while—put it on silent or airplane mode—and give yourself a break from the endless notifications. Use this time to focus on what’s in front of you or simply take a breather.

7. Reward Yourself, No Matter How Small

Self-care doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. Sometimes, a little treat is all you need to lift your mood. Buy yourself puff-puff, a chilled drink, or the shawarma you\’ve been eyeing all week for finishing that assignment. These small rewards can go a long way in keeping you motivated and bringing some joy to your day, especially after a tough day.

Being a student is already hard enough, so don’t let stress be your permanent roommate. These self-care tips aren’t about changing your life overnight, they’re about finding small, affordable ways to stay sane. A little dance here, a small snack there, and premium gist with your people can make all the difference.

Now, go try these tips and your mental health will thank you. Also, don’t forget to share this article with your friends who may find it helpful. Sharing is a love language.

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