As many college students know, being in school can cause a lot of stress. The pressure of doing well, completing tasks and participating in extracurricular activities can become overwhelming.
“I’m just a freshman, and I already feel overwhelmed at times. The pressure is unbelievable,” said Sasha Massey.
Not only can stress lead to health-related problems, but it can also trigger mental and social problems. For example, physical stress can cause a rapid heartbeat, headaches, backache, sweaty palms, upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea.
Emotionally and mentally, it can cause undesired symptoms such as becoming irritable and intolerant of minor disturbances, feeling irritated or frustrated, losing your temper more often, and yelling at others for no reason. It can even cause people to doubt your ability to do things.
One way Winston-Salem State students can relieve stress is by utilizing the Health Center, which provides massage therapy.
The massage program started last fall and is free of charge. The services are usually available on Mondays twice a month, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The services will start in February.
Massey decided to try out the services. She was able to lie down on a massage table, which has a opening at the top for the user to insert their head. She received a five-minute massage from Kayla Haire, a licensed massage and body work therapist.
After her massage, Massey seemed pleased.
“My body feels much better. I feel like my body is not tensed up anymore. My muscles feel so relaxed.”
Haire works for Elite Massage, which is part of the gym 24/7 Fitness. “It helps out a lot of things,” she said, explaining that massage therapy can help with inflammation and blood flow in the body. “Most importantly, it helps relieve stress from the student,” she said.
According to the Web site massagetherapy.com, it can enhance immunity by increasing the body’s flow of lymph nodes; it exercises and stretches weak, tight or atrophied muscles, lessens depression and anxiety, and even relieves migraine pain.
To receive a free massage, visit the health center, located behind Gleason-Hariston Terrace Residence Hall and next to the Anderson Center. Or, call 336-750-3000, and ask for an appointment.