There is no denying that you have some of the times of your life in college. That does not mean that it is without its share of stresses. The classes and subsequent school work alone is enough to make your head spin. Add on clubs, organizations, sports, and, of course, a social life and you are in for one hectic schedule. A big drawback of being stressed is that it lowers your sex drive. In fact, sex can actually be your biggest weapon against stress.

Have you ever started laughing randomly during or after sex? That calm, sleepy, relaxed feeling? That's because sex releases certain chemicals in the brain that both fight stress and set you on the right track for a good mood all day. For example, during sex or masturbation, your brain raises its levels of serotonin. High levels of serotonin in the brain help fight depression, which is why medicines like Prozac raise those levels. Not only are you going to feel good physically, but you are going to feel better about yourself, too.

Serotonin isn't the only chemical released by the brain. It also releases a chemical called oxytocin, which makes you feel relaxed and soothed. It is basically the brain's natural sedative. That is why, more often than not, you fall asleep not long after an orgasm. All of the endorphins that your brain is producing during sex or masturbation are great for helping you and your body let go of tension, pent up frustration, and anxieties. Now that you know what's going on in your brain, let's talk about ways to use those good feelings to fight your college stress.

Have an orgasm every day. Having orgasms is the key to releasing those chemicals in the brain. By releasing those chemicals every day, you are essentially doing the same thing as an antidepressant. Take some time out of your day, however long that may be, to get yourself off. If you need (or just want) a little extra help, enlist your partner. I highly doubt that they will say no.

Treat yourself right. You want to make yourself as comfortable as possible to get the most out of your intimate moment. Take the time to set the mood, especially if you're having sex. The more romantic you make the moment, the more the brain releases serotonin, oxytocin, and other feel good chemicals. Besides that, your partner will appreciate the romance. Even if you don't have time for sex, just being close to someone that you care deeply for allows the brain to produce some of those key chemicals that leave you feeling relaxed and ready to take on your work load.

Have fun. This is probably the most important part. You want to enjoy yourself, whether you are having solo time or spending time with the person you love. Take it too seriously and you're only going to wind up stressing yourself out even more and that's very counterproductive.

Keep in mind that, while college is stressful, the “real world” that everyone keeps talking about is just as rough. Don't turn your college years in a stressed out blur. So save your paper, shut your text books, grab your favorite toy or person, and get busy relaxing!