How to Balance Mental Health During Finals Week

Your final exams are just around the corner, and you’re wondering how you can balance mental health during this time. You’re worried you’ll forget how to determine the value of “b” in a certain algebraic equation. And will you be able to adequately explain on your history exam how British authorities united American colonies?

The reality is, you’re not alone. Research shows that more than 34% of students back in 2016 said stress negatively affected their school performance. However, stress can also contribute to certain ailments like depression and diabetes.

Fortunately, it is possible to combat the stress of final exams. Here’s a rundown on how to balance mental health during finals week.

Let’s jump in!

Balance Mental Health by Connecting with Others

One of the best things you can do to relieve stress from your final exams is to stay connected with others.

For instance, take a little time to call your parents or siblings. Or, take a brief break to say “hi” to your grandparents. Talk to anybody who is good at calming you down and keeping you in a positive mood.

Also, while talking to family and/or friends, be sure to discuss topics other than school. This is especially important for releasing negative energy and temporarily moving your mind away from final exam preparation.

Nap

This is yet another powerful way you can balance your mental health during finals week. That’s because power naps can easily recharge your body and your mind.

Yes, stress can make it hard to go to sleep. However, if you deprive your body of eight hours of sleep every day, you may ultimately hinder your exam performance.

Having trouble falling asleep at night? Make sure that you carve some time out for power napping during the day to make sure that you get your eight hours of sleep. This will help you to protect your wellbeing and health long-term.

Eat Right

You can also keep your mind and body sharp during finals week by making smart food choices. For instance, stick with vegetables and fruits, as they can prepare your physical and psychological self for your exams.

Other nutritious food options include dark chocolate, eggs, nuts, vegetables, and fruits.

Also, be sure to drink eight glasses of water daily. Your brain depends on adequate hydration to operate at its optimal level. If you’re dehydrated, your brain cells will end up losing efficiency, which can negatively impact your exam performance.

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Sources:

Borman J. “Studies show students stress more during finals week” The Butler Collegian, 5 Dec. 2017, https://thebutlercollegian.com/2017/12/studies-show-students-stress-more-during-finals-week/

Gowin J. “Why your brain needs water” Psychology Today, 15 Oct. 2010, https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/you-illuminated/201010/why-your-brain-needs-water

Jensen B. “Five ways to relieve stress during finals week” Daily Collegian, 1 May 2017, https://www.collegian.psu.edu/news/campus/finals_mag/five-ways-to-relieve-stress-during-finals-week/article_cfa83348-2e0e-11e7-951b-0fd4d638ec4c.html