Surf your stress. © Wageningen University
“Surf your Stress” is the name of the project started by the university to teach students how to cope with stress. This project was initiated by staff and students. It is meant to ensure that the dialogue on this subject within the university is stimulated and to give students a better grip on how to deal with stress. The first events will be organised in October and November, says project leader Esther Ruijters.
Ruijters: ‘On 8 October, there will be a Time Out theatre play on stress and burnouts among young adults. This play is performed by professional actors, who will actively involve the audience to talk about the subject and their own experiences.’ The show will be in the Waaierzaal and will be opened by Rector Magnificus Arthur Mol at 8 pm. There will be drinks afterwards in the Time Out cafe in The Spot. ‘People will have a chance to talk to the actors, psychologists, deans, and do some fun activities there as well. And the drinks are free.’ The show is held in English. Students can register for the show free of charge through www.wur.eu/surfyourstress.
Surf your Stress week
One month later, there will be an entire week dedicated to stress. From 11 to 15 November, the Surf your Stress project group, Vital@Work, De Bongerd sports centre and Thymos will be organising the Surf your Stress week. ‘A whole range of activities will be organised during that week to provide students and employees with more tools to cope with stress. There will be lectures about what it is, about social media and stress and about time management. There will also be a workshop on the science of failing, a workshop on choice overload, all kinds of sports activities, relaxing massages and a stress ball pit.’ The activities will take place both during the day and in the evening all around the campus.
If you suffer from stress, visit the website www.wur.nl/surfyourstress for further information and tips. If you need help, talk to your study advisor, they can advise you on the steps to take.