As finals season quickly approaches, so does the inevitable stress and late nights of studying. The following list, compiled by members of the Perspective staff, offers a myriad of ways to reduce stress before and during finals:
- Go outside
If you are feeling stressed, taking a short walk outside is a great way to clear your mind. Students can be very busy during finals, but being in nature and exercising have been proven to relieve stress and depression and improve overall mental health.
- Eat your favorite snack/meal
Eating your favorite food can relieve stress. According to WebMD, “food can help tame stress in several ways.” Treat yourself to some food from your favorite restaurant, go out to eat with friends, or have a late-night snack between subjects.
- Prioritize sleep
Getting proper rest is important for retaining information. According to the Yale School of Medicine, “Most research shows that sleep plays a critical role in the formation and storage of long-term memories.” As beneficial as all-nighters seem in the short term, getting a full eight hours is crucial to retaining and remembering your study material.
- Listen to music
Many studies have shown the link between listening to music and stress reduction. Take advantage of these positive effects and turn on your favorite songs while looking over your notes or study guides.
- Take a shower
Practicing good hygiene and self-care often acts as a reset and can make you feel less stressed.
- Focus on one thing at a time
It can be overwhelming to think about all of the things on your to-do list but just focus on doing one task at a time. Completing one task is great progress and gets you one step closer to the finish line!
- Make a study schedule
Create a consistent schedule of when and where you plan to study so that it is one less thing you need to worry about. Maybe consider going to a coffee shop or a quiet place like a library to study out of the house.
- Watch your favorite TV show or movie
Turn on your TV and watch your favorite show or movie. This can help relieve stress and give your mind a break. According to Philo Poll, “Watching your favorite show can encourage the release of dopamine, which creates a sense of euphoria.”
- Study with friends
Instead of studying on your own, studying with friends can make studying more enjoyable. Just remember to choose a group of friends that motivate you and hold you accountable when completing work.
- Take a break
Though it may seem contradictory, taking a break from studying can help you study more efficiently and effectively. After all, doing schoolwork while stressed can often prolong the process of studying and increase stress levels. While you are working, consider taking a short “brain break.”
Finals season is a stressful time of the year, so it is important to take care of yourself and your mental health. While grades are important, remember that your mental health is equally as important and deserves just as much attention as your studies.
Finals will take place from Wednesday, Jan. 24 to Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. Students will take two finals per half day, in order of 1st to 6th hour.
