Ways to relax with upcoming deadlines

• Set fake deadlines: By setting fake deadlines is one of my ways to manage the deadlines. For instance, I would say Tuesday if the deadline is on Friday, which gives enough time to work and proof read my work. This gives me time to think things over and make changes. Stress-relieving music and small achievements give me a sense of accomplishment

• Practice meditation: You can think about doing breathing exercises or meditation when you're feeling anxious. These exercises can help you focus and help your heart rate to slow down. Meditation frequently assists in clearing your mind of worries and teaches you to be present in the moment rather than thinking continually about deadlines and other concerns.

• Create smaller goals: Reduce the deadline stress by dividing up your larger goals into smaller chores. With this, you can concentrate on a single tiny task at a time until your job is finished. To make sure you have enough time to do everything by the deadline, estimate how long each particular task might take to accomplish

• Find positivity: When under stress, you might only consider the drawbacks of a circumstance. When attempting to fulfil deadlines, you can adopt a more upbeat mindset by reflecting on what you're doing well. You can also picture how chores will turn out. This can assist you in thinking about the outcomes rather than just the activities at hand, which may lift your spirits. 

• Take breaks: Taking breaks might help you feel less stressed, even though you might want to push through your lunch break or other breaks to meet your deadline.  Use this to unwind and come back to work more energised and focused. In order to keep this balance, think about taking quick walks throughout the day. 

• Take rest: Your focus and mental ability may benefit from sleep. Going to bed early can help you feel more rested the next day, even if you work longer hours to achieve a deadline. 

• Apply for an extension or deferral: If you are feeling stressed or unable to meet your deadlines, you can apply for extensions or deferrals. If your extension request is accepted by the university, you may be given extra time to complete your work. In the case of a deferral, you should contact your module leader or the relevant information point within your faculty building to request a deadline extension, which allows you to submit the coursework in the next semester. If you plan to apply for an extension or deferral, you must provide valid reasons, such as a medical record or a report from a general practitioner.

Dangers of deadline anxiety:

• Heart rate increase: Stress can raise the heart rate, which might make you feel anxious or experience palpitations. 
• Muscle tension: Stress can lead students to experience muscle tightness or aches, especially in the shoulders, neck, and back. 
• Headaches - Tension and stress:  One typical physical sign of deadline anxiety is headaches. 
• Digestive issues: Stress can have an impact on digestion, causing symptoms like nausea, stomach distress, or diarrhoea. 
• Sleep problems: Anxiety and stress can make it hard to fall asleep or stay asleep, which can make you feel tired and reduce your productivity. 
• Weakness or fatigue: Prolonged stress can cause sensations of weakness or exhaustion, which makes it challenging to carry out duties efficiently.