Dear Students,
I can’t believe the end of fall quarter is almost here. Finals are right around the corner. As we approach this very busy season, I want to remind you to take care of your physical and mental health, and offer some tips on managing stress.
The essential first step is to get organized. Write down all the things you have to do to prepare for exams. If you feel there's too much to do right away, work out priorities for your assignments, then follow these helpful tips from Counseling and Psychological Services.
1. Try using written lists, a day planner, or a calendar to organize your classes, homework, study time, exams, and time for "self-care." It's important to eat, sleep, exercise, and relax!
2. Set daily goals for studying, but be realistic. We are not machines, after all.
3. Give yourself credit for the work you're getting done.
4. Don't allow yourself to slip into self-defeating habits, such as procrastinating. Try to keep your momentum going. Break up blocks of study with short breaks to limit fatigue. If you study solidly for a couple of hours, make sure you give yourself a break before you start up again.
5. Practice relaxation in your daily life. Simple techniques, such as breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation, can help you feel calm and more focused.
6. Don’t let exam stress get in the way of a lifestyle that is healthy and conducive to effective study. Health and well-being boils down to these essential steps:
• Eat regular nutritious meals, including fruit, vegetables, and protein. Minimize junk food.
• Try to maintain a good sleep routine, going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Most people do not benefit from all-nighters. Factor some exercise into your routine each day; walking is good.
• Cut down on caffeine; don’t rely on alcohol and other drugs.
• Practice a relaxation exercise at least once a day. Also, think of other things you find relaxing—maybe listening to music, taking a hot shower, making art, watching videos, or talking to a friend. Relaxation exercises and other ways to manage stress will work best if you practice them regularly—not just when you’re already super stressed. Even a few minutes a day is good!
• Each morning when you get up, try to have a realistic plan for the day. Allow yourself to feel good at the end of the day about what you achieved.
• Think positively when you wake up. It helps a lot if you can approach the start of each day in a positive way. One technique is to think of three things you feel grateful for; another is to visualize the positive behaviors you will engage in throughout the day.
And remember, if you feel overwhelmed and need support, don't hesitate to reach out to friends, family, college staff, or Counseling and Psychological Services.
Good luck with finals, and happy holidays!
Sincerely,
Alma
