So for most of us collegiettes, it’s finals week. That means it is a time that many of us feel burnt out, stressed and on edge. It’s challenging to juggle papers, projects and exams along with going to work, maintaining relationships and having time for yourself. If you deal with mental health issues like myself, sometimes these challenges can feel even more daunting. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to help cope with the stress of finals week.
1. Sleep
This is pretty obvious, but it is still worth mentioning. A lot of college kids will pull all-nighters in order to get all of their work done. Avoid this at all costs, because many times, it isn’t even worth it! Waking up groggy won’t make you do better on that presentation or exam. If you have anxiety like me and sometimes find it hard to sleep before the day of a big assignment, something that helps me is downloading rain sound apps and listening to podcasts specifically designed for sleep. Sometimes insomnia is relentless and you catch yourself up in the wee hours of the night unable to sleep. If this happens, a little melatonin can go a long way. This is a sleep hormone produced naturally by our bodies. Melatonin isn’t too expensive and can be found where drugs are sold.
2. Study in groups
This can motivate you to get your work done. It can be distracting studying with others but if you go to the library in a quiet section, or each put in headphones and work on your own assignments, it can make all the difference. Sometimes just being in the presence of my friends can lower my anxiety immensely, and studying with friends is a good way to motivate each other and to also feel less alone during this stressful time.
3. Take time out for yourself
This could mean taking 30 minutes out of studying to watch your favorite YouTuber, painting your nails or taking a bath. Use this time for you and try to not think of all the work you have during this time. While being diligent with school work is important, it is also important to remember to do things just for you because they make you relaxed or happy. This can put you in a better mindset to get some work done after and can lower stress levels.
4. Self-Affirmation
Finals week can bring up feelings of inadequacy. You might question your ability to get work done or be critical of the work you produce. Keep in mind that you have been in high-stress situations related to school and have successfully gotten through them. This semester is no different! Remind yourself that you are indeed capable of finishing work, work that you are happy with in the end.
Remember that grades are not an indicator of how successful you will be in life, how smart you are or how worthy you are. You are worthy regardless!
Good luck on your finals! Remember you are capable and worthy even if your brain tries to trick you into thinking you’re not.
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