It’s finals week!
That means it’s almost time to celebrate! But I know you’re probably still stressing a little bit about your finals, projects, and presentations. So I’m here to give you a little peace of mind during finals week:
1. Watch out for the caffeine.
I know it’s a big go-to for many of you, and it makes sense. You’re studying for many hours, probably in the late hours of the night, skipping sleep, and making sure that you are totally prepared for your exams.  Caffeine helps keep you wired.
It makes sense.
But caffeine is actually the worst thing for your body when you are stressed. It will strain your nervous system, which may cause you to be overly jittery, and it can negatively impact your ability to sleep effectively.
2. Stay away from “study-aide” medications like Ritalin and Adderall.
For those unaware, these are pills that are used for focus and concentration and are commonly used to treat people with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). In recent years, college students have started obtaining these pills without a prescription, which is pretty dangerous.
Plainly, it’s just not smart to depend on these medications to help you manage your studying load. These medications can be addictive to the degree that they can cause more issues for you down the road.
I’ve worked with many students in the past that have developed issues with using these pills and I strongly advise against using them unless you are genuinely prescribed these pills by a doctor.
3. GET SOME SLEEP!
I know you have a lot on your plate with finals. I know that you’re probably writing three papers and studying for two finals, and still trying to have some semblance of a life—sleep is the answer.
Getting enough sleep will mean that you don’t have as much of a dependence on caffeine or study-aide pills. And trust me, I pulled plenty of all-nighters back in my college days. But it isn’t smart.
A lack of sleep makes for a very exhausted brain. An exhausted brain will not retain information well, which means you are more likely to make mistakes or forget much of what you’re being tested on.
When you feel like you need to sleep, sleep! It’s that easy. Balance your time well and make sure you’re making time for your body and mind to rest.
Okay, the rest will fly by pretty quickly—
4. Have some tasty and healthy snacks!
Load up on fruits and nuts—both of which are great snacks for studying. Throw some granola into some yogurt, or toss some broccoli and chia seeds into a fruit smoothie. Just make good choices on what to eat instead of reaching for greasy pizza or hamburgers every night.
5. Be active.
I know that the weather is starting to turn warmer and it can be very enticing to be outside—so go outside! Make sure to take study breaks by going for a run, a walk, or a bike ride—something that will keep you active and give you the chance to breathe.
6. Limit your distractions.
Turn off social media. Turn off the TV. Music can be helpful, and I suggest instrumental tunes or something that won’t keep you too focus on lyrics or grooving—because as much as I love to groove, I often take it to the next level and start jamming out. And I’m sure many of you do the same.
I’m not saying avoid people or the world around you, but make sure you’re focused on what you’ve gotta do.
7. Just breathe.
The stress will pass. Just breathe. You got this. You’re all brilliant human beings and you will dominate your exams. Just take care of yourself and you’ll be just fine.
Best of luck, and to those of you graduating in a couple of weeks, I can’t wait to see you walk across the stage. And to those of you returning in the fall, let’s hang out!
I’m here to support you during your college experience through supporting your health and wellness. So if you have anything you’d like to talk about, feel free to stop by my office at Campus Center 3407, on the third floor of the campus center. I’m around all summer!
Be well and enjoy your summer!