By EMILY THOMAS

With Family Home Evening on Monday nights, service projects, ward and sport activities, along with balancing school, work and church responsibilities and helping with home responsibilities, students have a tendency to be overworked and have had an increase of stress over the past decade.

With the heavy load university students have to bear, sickness and mental health problems, such as depression, are on an increase in the past ten years, according to The National College Health Assessment in a report given by The Harvard Crimson.

Some BYU students find balance and peace in their busy lives as a result of their student church activities planned for them by the activities committee.

"Having lots of activities are good for students to participate in, but they should not feel they have to be involved in everything to the point they are overwhelmed," said Heidi Cushing, activities chairman in the BYU 74th Ward.

Strong friendships through church activities can lower depression among students.

"I think our activities give people the opportunity to be themselves which facilitates friendships bringing the ward close together," Cushing said.

Joseph Ray Webb, a junior from Woodlands, Texas, majoring in mechanical engineering, said he always tries to make it to FHE and ward activities unless he has tests to complete.

"I do not feel as active with ward activities because school takes up so much of my time," said Whitney Herrod, a sophomore from Hereford, Ariz., majoring in biology.

She said when prioritizing her time, school comes first because of the cost of an education.

By cutting back on hard classes, Herrod said her social life could improve and her stress would be lowered.

Student involvement can be improved in wards by flyers, Webb said, while calling and inviting friends personally can increase attendance in ward activities and help people feel accepted and loved.

"Ninety percent of our church callings is to be friends with everyone," Webb said.

Herrod said having activities is a nice way to be able to get away from school and maintain a healthy balance.

"The best way for students to get involved and support the activities is by coming and having a good attitude," Cushing said.



Copyright Brigham Young University 8 Jan 2004