Hello guys, gals, and non-binary pals! This week, I’m going to be talking about how I handle stress as a college student. It can be pretty easy to get overwhelmed when you have a lot going on, especially during exams season, so these are the strategies that I use to keep myself grounded and make sure that I get everything done.
1. Get enough sleep
I know it’s really tempting to pull an all-nighter to try to get all of your work done, but you will end up regretting it in the morning. I’ve found that I am able to get so much more done and be so much more present when I get enough sleep. It’s always more important to prioritize your well-being over getting a perfect grade. Remembering that you’re important and that you matter, is so vital to maintaining good mental health during exams season. Your grades do not define who you are as a person and in the long run, one bad grade isn’t going to hurt you.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask for help/extensions
From my experience, professors tend to be really kind and understanding when it comes to asking for extensions. Professors understand that you’re a human being who isn’t perfect and has a lot going on in your life. While in college, it is really vital to be in communication with your professors, go to office hours, and ask for help when you need it. Everyone at college wants you to succeed and do your best.
3. Remember to take breaks
When studying for a long time for an exam or essay, it’s really important to take breaks, walk around, and breathe. I’ve tried to power through study sessions and I end up really feeling exhausted and drained. Giving yourself time to go for a walk, talk to a friend, or eat a snack while studying will make it go so much easier and you’ll end up feeling so much better. Don’t be afraid to relax a little bit.
4. Talk to your support network
Calling home is one of my favorite things to do when I’m feeling overwhelmed. When I’m able to talk things out with someone who I trust, I always feel a lot better and more grounded when it comes to the things going on in my life. It’s a great way to remind myself that I have a life outside of college and though the work that I do here does matter and I enjoy doing it, it’s nice to know that I always have a place to come back to and get away from it all. It’s also just great to connect with friends during exams season, as they’re probably going through a similar experience as you. Shared complaining can be a great way to let out some steam and form a stronger connection.
5. Remember to take care of your body
Though sleeping is incredibly important, it’s not the only thing that you need to do to take care of your body. Eating enough food, getting exercise, and doing the things that make you feel good are so important as well. I really benefit from eating breakfast in the mornings, and often when I’m stressed out I have the temptation to stay up studying and sleep through breakfast. I have to remind myself that keeping my routine up will lead to more effective studying in the future and not giving in to this temptation. At the end of the day, you matter more than getting a perfect grade and it’s really up to you to be in your own corner and do what you need to do to feel okay.