Why is finals week so stressful

Haran said that finals is definitely the most stressful time of the year for her, but other times when she has big tests can be stressful as well. Maria Fletcher, a physician in the Health Services office in the HRC, said that students come to Health Services asking for help with stress and mental health problems equally throughout the year, but for different reasons. Fletcher said in medical work, stressful moments are an everyday phenomena, but she tries to make time for herself so that she can unwind.

I try to eat healthy and hydrate. I practice mindfulness and yoga. I walk for exercise which also allows me time to enjoy nature. Diaz said that recent studies by the American Physiological Association found that stress in the United States is at an all-time high and that one of the primary causes of that stress is concern about the future of our nation.

To help get a better measurement of collegiate stressors, the National College Health Assessment, a survey that Butler has participated in in the past and plans to again in the calendar year, surveys current college students to see what weighs most heavily on young people in the United States. The most recent study found that students are experiencing high levels of loneliness, hopelessness and stress.

Diaz said that while her office and organizations like PAWS can help students with mental health problems, it takes a larger community to make sure people are healthy and happy.

Fletcher said better study habits, as well as stress relievers such as meditation, breathing exercises, imagery exercises, praying, yoga, working out, eating healthy and drinking water can be the best tools for students to successfully navigate times of extreme pressure.

Study smarter instead of harder. For some, mental health problems can be difficult to confront. Diaz said empowerment is a way that communities can encourage self care and help students who are struggling, regardless of the time of year.

Decide on an interval for taking breaks i. Breaks can include things like a quick walk, music, a nap, or a funny video. Short breaks will help you recharge and prevent burnout. Study groups, shared meals, or just working next to friends in the library are all good ways to stay connected and get some peer support.

Finals may be hard, but it can help to feel like you are in it with other people. Plus, all the work and stress can make it easy to isolate or even avoid assignments and studying. Others can provide accountability and motivation to keep working.

While being around people can be helpful, avoid the trap of procrastination through social media. Do you want the news without having to hunt for it? Sign up for our morning s'newsletter. It's everything your friends are talking about and then some. And it's free! Above all, Patishnock said he wants students to remember the stress, anxiety and other negative emotions students get from final exams and other academic pressure is completely normal and treatable.

Saturday, November 13,