PAWS Laws: CUNY study reveals procrastination is one of the biggest sources of stress

The CUNY Graduate Center's latest study on the causes of student stress finds that the underlying reason could be procrastination.

The study, "Depressive Symptoms and Not Sleep Quality are A Key Factor in Procrastination Among College Students," by Katherine Nutter-Upham, a doctoral student at the CUNY Graduate Center, has put the concept of procrastination into perspective.

The study showed that sleep decreased while depressive symptoms increased due to procrastination. Older students, who procrastinate more than younger students, are especially at risk for developing depression.

While students often procrastinate to avoid immediate stress, many do so without considering the larger picture. Procrastination only delays and amplifies the stress.

For example, you might avoid doing your paper until the weekend before the due date, but then learn that you will be having a test in each of those classes. Consequently, by procrastinating, you have two tests and a paper to do.


Remember, stress is the result of the inadequate use of our coping resources when we are faced with stressors. One of the most important factors in reducing stress is managing your time effectively. If you do so, you will be able to complete your work, study for tests and have some leisure time.


This leads me to another factor, having fun. It is unrealistic to expect college students to work 24/7. There are various fun, healthy things students can do to reduce stress. Yoga, meditation or even movies can get you away from what is stressing you out.


The last, and one of the most important things to do to avoid and reduce stress, is to utilize your local recourses. This can be your family, friends and resources at the college.

The Baruch Offices of Academic Advisement, the Counseling Center, the STARR Career Development Center, the SACC Tutoring Center, the Writing Center and Peers Advocating Wellness Services (formerly Helpline) can help you through stressful times, school-related or not.


While stress is an everyday occurrence, it can be reduced and avoided. Just be sure to utilize all of your resources and not procrastinate.

Written by a staff member at PAWS, this weekly column will focus on different health issues that affect Baruch students. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Clemente Diaz at clemente.diaz@baruchmail.cuny.edu.