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Thriving Through Midterms: Your Ultimate Guide to Mental Well-Being

The opinions expressed in this article are the writer’s own and do not reflect the views of Her Campus.
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at York U chapter.

It’s that time of the semester again when midterm exams loom over us like storm clouds—but fear not! In this article, we’re going to discuss how to tackle the pressures of midterms while maintaining our mental well-being. Whether you’re a seasoned student or new to the journey, these tips will help you stay on track with a touch of wisdom!

Prioritise self care

First and foremost, remember that self-care is not selfish. Take care of yourself like the amazing person you are! Prioritizing self-care means making time for relaxation, exercise, good food and plenty of sleep. Your mental health deserves some pampering too, especially during midterm week. Set aside time for a soothing bubble bath, a walk in the park, or a heartwarming chat with friends. You’ll be amazed at how much more focused and confident you may feel when you’re recharged.

Create a study schedule

Organizing your study time is key. Just like you’d carefully plan a fun day out with your friends, you’ll want to schedule your study sessions. Break your study time into manageable chunks and then stick to your agenda. Allocate some breaks for a quick dance party or a cute coffee date. Make a to-do list, and you’ll likely feel accomplished every time you check something off!

stay hydrated and nourished

Feeding your brain is just as important as feeding your soul. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and snacking on healthy brain foods like nuts, berries, and dark chocolate. Don’t forget those leafy greens too! A well-nourished brain will help you stay sharp and focused during your midterms.

get your study squad together

Midterm week is more fun when you’re in it together. Create a study group with your pals and make studying feel like a party! You can share notes, quiz each other and provide moral support when needed. Plus, you get to celebrate your successes together when it’s all over.

stay positive

Maintaining a positive attitude is like rocking your favorite outfit—it just feels right. Keep those negative thoughts in check and replace them with positive affirmations. Believe in yourself, and remind yourself that you’ve got this! If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to friends or campus resources for reassurance and support. You’re not alone on this journey.

Time for Mindfulness

In the midst of midterms, make sure to take mindful moments. Just like a girls’ night in, a little mindfulness can go a long way towards reducing stress. Try meditation, deep breathing exercises, or even a yoga class. These practices will help you stay centered and calm during the midterm chaos.

reward yourself

Once your midterms are over, celebrate your hard work. Plan a fabulous treat for yourself. Maybe it’s a spa day, a new outfit, or a movie night with friends. You’ve earned it!

Balancing mental health and midterms might feel like a juggling act, but you’ve got all the power you need to succeed. Remember, you’re not just a student; you’re a strong and resilient individual. By prioritizing self-care, creating a study schedule, staying nourished, and embracing positivity, you’ll navigate midterms with grace. You’ve got this, and your future is brighter than you can imagine. So, go ahead, and tackle those midterms like the fierce and fabulous student you are!

Jessica is an Italian-Canadian student at York University pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminology. She is focused on studying the fields of criminal justice, human rights, and the complexities of the legal system.