By Brooke Brinker, Staff Writer
As the year comes to a close, stress increases for students as deadlines approach and finals loom around the corner.
As the weeks go by, students feel increasing amounts of anxiety and the weight of overwhelming workloads upon their shoulders.
“Identify the coping methods that you are using and determine if these methods are effective or not,” said Dr. Tammy Zacchilli, professor of psychology.
As the semester progresses, college students often experience burnout, making the final stretch increasingly difficult. With the holidays approaching, many find themselves distracted, focused more on the upcoming break than on their studies.
Students strive to balance academics, extracurricular activities, sports, jobs, and social time. As the semester nears its end, managing all these responsibilities becomes increasingly challenging.
Many students sacrifice sleep to keep up with their studies. The pressure to improve grades can lead to heightened stress and anxiety, with many fearing they might fail. This overwhelming load often contributes to increased feelings of depression and anxiety.
To manage end-of-semester stress, prioritizing adequate sleep and rest is essential; a good night’s sleep helps students feel refreshed and energized for the new day.
“The end of the semester can feel super overwhelming and stressful, but it’s important that students prioritize themselves by self-care, taking breaks, practicing time management, seeking support, and staying positive,” said Tamar Alzate, a junior majoring in clinical psychology.
Another effective way to reduce stress is by continuing to engage in hobbies and activities. Taking breaks from constant studying and homework is crucial; without downtime, the pressure can quickly build and increase stress levels.
To take a break, consider attending an event at the Student Activities Building or grabbing lunch with a friend.
Finally, managing your time effectively is key. Create an organized weekly plan to stay on top of your tasks, while still making time to relax and enjoy moments with the people you care about.
“If you are experiencing depression or anxiety that is making it difficult for you to manage daily tasks, please consider contacting the counseling center. Social support during difficult times is extremely important,” said Zacchilli.
It’s important to remember that everything will be okay. As long as you’re doing you best, that is always enough.
