While everyone else is excited about the holidays, college students are struggling under a mountain of projects, essays, and exams. Yes, the wonderful time of finals has come: known to many as dead week. Everyone wants to finish up and head home for the winter break, but they must conquer this semester first. It's sure to cause a lot of stress, which is why it's important to find ways of de-stressing during the hardest week of the semester.

1. Nap

It's not ideal, but sometimes life can get so stressful that the only way to calm down is to sleep. Here explains the best length of naps to have the best quality brain functioning.

2. Take a walk

Walks are always great to clear your head and just focus on yourself and nature. Make it a point not to think about any work that has to be done while you're walking, otherwise it becomes a stressful walk!

3. Exercise

Exercise is a great way to get your anger and frustrations about work out. It's healthy mentally and physically so put on some music and hit the gym!

4. Take a long shower

I don't know about you, but I do my best thinking when I'm in the shower. Something about the hot water and steam makes my brain work 1000 times better. If only I could take my laptop in there...

5. Color

I know what you're thinking, "I'm not five years old!" But really, there's so many studies that show coloring has a calming affect to it. Print out a picture of a cute dog and color him purple. Name him Fluffy. Now you have a pet.

6. Go to an animal shelter

Surround yourself with happy fluffs of cats and dogs and forget your worries.

7. Watch funny videos

You know what they say, laughter is the best medicine. This is one of my favorites.

8. Eat something that makes you happy

Fill your tummy and your soul. Cheetos, pizza, ice cream, whatever you're craving. Don't worry about your diet, just eat your food and be happy about how good it tastes.

9. Take a break with friends

Everyone is on the struggle bus right now. Text some of your friends and take a break away from all of the essays and study guides. Grab some coffee or take an adventure downtown, just get away from the stress.

10. Watch something funny and simple on Netflix

Take a half hour and numb your mind with a stupid cartoon you like. Family Guy and Spongebob are my personal favorites.

There's no denying it: finals suck. It's important to do your best and get your work done, but make sure you take a break and don't completely lose your mind. We're almost done, don't give up yet!