By Jalyn Sneed/reporter

Students were taught how to control unwanted emotions at the Stress Management presentation on NE Campus Oct. 23.

SE counselor Carisa Givens provided the 30 students with a Stress Vulnerability questionnaire and tips to help manage stress.

Some students feel they have no control over their emotional intelligence, Givens said. But she wanted to tone down the intensity of strong emotions so one can still function.

“It is in our control to react to the events that happen to us,” she said.

Givens showed students a Wellness Wheel, which helps with balance in all aspects of life. She said resistance is unreasonable expectations we put on themselves, others or events. It’s important to know the difference between IQ and EQ.

“It’s important to be balanced in this area,” she said. “These are both skills not just for school, but for the workplace. Students need to know how to manage both.”

Students said they learned from the event and plan to use the tips in their everyday lives. NE student Latoya Small found the event beneficial.

“I learned to not let events control you,” she said. “It is what it is, and how you deal with the event is what matters.”

Small once found herself stressed about the Ebola outbreak in the U.S. but said that leaning on those one can trust can be helpful in stressful circumstances.

“The support of family is important,” she said.

NE student Karina Rivera said the event helped her learn how to deal with anxiety effectively.

“Whenever the anxiety level is high, try not to think about what’s bothering you,” she said. “Make sure it’s maintained.”

Givens said it’s important for students to know how to manage stress in their lives for several reasons.

“Students need to know how to manage stress so they can choose behaviors that won’t jeopardize their relationships, life goals and academics,” Givens said.

“It’s important for them to know how to navigate through challenges. Knowing how to manage stress can help the overall growth and development of a student.”