For the entire time you’ve been at Albertus Magnus College, you have been studying hard and putting your best effort into everything you do. Now that finals are coming up, you’re pushing yourself even harder — and you’re exhausted. You’re also not alone.
Last October, USA Today cited a study from the American College Health Association 2015 National College Health Assessment stating that “over 85% [of students] had felt overwhelmed by everything they had to do at some point within the past year.” And unfortunately, stress is just a part of college life (and life in general), and can take its toll.
According to WebMD:
-
75% to 90% of all doctor’s office visits are for stress-related ailments and complaints.
-
Stress can play a part in problems such as headaches, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, skin conditions, asthma, arthritis, depression and anxiety.
You don’t need to be a statistics major to understand that these numbers are alarming. On the other hand, there’s no need to panic either. Managing stress is entirely possible, even during finals, and we have some tips that will show you how. Following up on last month’s blog, Wellness Tips for College Students, this month we’re focusing on one specific piece of advice: Take time for yourself.
That’s right — step away from the copious notes and half-written papers and do something for you. We know this sounds absurd, especially at the end of the semester when there is so much work to do, but taking “me” time is extremely important particularly when you are overwhelmed.
When you take time for yourself, it allows you to relax, recharge and refocus. And while it sounds counterintuitive, short breaks will actually improve your productivity. In fact, there are numerous scientific studies confirming this fact. Don’t believe us? Take a break and “Google” it.
Now, that we’re on the same page, just in case you’ve forgotten how to spend your “me” time, we have some suggestions:
-
Nap
-
Read (for fun)
-
Workout
-
Watch a movie or TV
-
Connect with your friends in person, online or by phone
-
Knit, draw, cook, play video games, etc.
-
Join a club based on your hobby rather than academics
-
We encourage our Albertus students to take a walk around our gorgeous campus. While you’re on that walk, treat yourself to a coffee at the Common Ground Cyber Cafe or a snack at the House of Bollstadt Pub.
It really doesn’t matter what you do when you take time for yourself; it’s just important that you do it. The most difficult part will be convincing that inner voice of determination and work ethic — the one that drives you to academic success — that taking a break is not only okay, it’s actually really good for your productivity.
Remember, however, that if you do find yourself really struggling with stress, and breaks aren’t enough to make you feel better, Albertus offers numerous services that will help you get back on track. For all things academic, visit the Academic Services for Teaching and Learning Experiences. For medical issues or a little extra support (which we all need from time to time) through counseling, reach out to campus Health Services.
So the next time you feel guilty about taking some “me” time during a busy period like finals week, don’t — your desire for productivity will thank you.