Midterms Are Coming! Tips to Avoid Stress

by Diana Monterroza

Life as a college student is stressful with the most stressful time for students possibly midterms and finals. Although it might seem far away, midterms are just around the corner and the stress and anxiety is starting to be felt on the Southwestern Adventist University campus.  

Maintaining a good mental state is a priority, which is essential to the success of the student. But how can one do that

Midterm exams are one the most stresssful times of the semester for students.

when trying to balance school, work, and social life?  

Here are a few tips to help manage and reduce stress.  

Starting early  

With midterms starting in a few weeks, now is a perfect time to prepare. Start studying a little bit every day to help you remember things easier. You will have more time to go over the information instead of trying to cram all the information into your brain at the last minute. This can help reduce the stress and anxiety associated with your exams.  

Aubrey Peterson, senior biology student, said she has started looking at the study guides for her midterms. “I am mostly stressed about one of my midterms because I did not get a study guide, which helps me a lot to prepare.” 

Take care of your health 

It’s easy to let your basic needs fall through the cracks. Make sure you get a full night’s sleep, eat balanced nutritious meals, and surround yourself with people whom you can count on.  

“I focus on each day and do the best I can each day,” says Issak Tamez, senior kinesiology student. “A lot of hobbies, and a good night’s sleep is essential. Being recharged and being in a good mental state is important to me.” 

Take time for yourself 

Whenever you feel overwhelmed just take a step back and allow yourself to clear your mind. Take short breaks while studying, and go on a short walk outside. Breathe the fresh air and let the sun hit your face. Maybe take a quick power nap or listen to music. This will help you come back to work with a clear mind and be able to focus better.  

Use the available resources  

SWAU’s counseling and testing center is an incredible resource available for students to relax and unwind. The center offers counseling and therapy sessions available weekly, as well as a relaxation station. Several therapists/counselors are available to all SWAU students. The relaxation station offers a safe space to relax, listen to music, use the massage chair, grab a snack and forget about everything else before having to go back to studying. The center recently hired a new therapist for the nursing department as the stress nursing students experience is typically higher. 

Both Peterson and Tamez stated that they have been using the center and its resources regularly.  

“I go to counseling, I wish I had started using it earlier, it would help me learn more about myself and how to manage the stressors in my life,” says Tamez.

  Although college exams can be extremely stressful, take time to take care of yourself and enjoy your time. Hopefully you find these tips helpful and good luck with your finals! 

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