It's the week before spring break, and I don't know about ya'll but I'm in way over my head in schoolwork. This week alone I have two midterms, two five-page essays due, a test, and not to mention classes to attend with homework assignments due. I'm certain I'm not the only Samford student feeling the pressures and stresses of midterm week. Good news is that when it's all over on Friday, we get to head out for our spring break destinations! So, when you're feeling like you just can't handle it anymore and your head is about to explode here's a few suggestions.

1. Drink Caffeine. Lots of it.

I'll admit, this probably isn't the healthiest suggestion but, hey, it works. Coffee is my caffeinated beverage of choice for exam week. Early in the morning, it cuts down on my grogginess and, late at night, it keeps me alert enough to keep on studying. Also, coffee shops are a more relaxing environment to study in than the library. My favorite coffee shops for studying are Church Street Coffee & Books, Seeds, and O'Henry's.

2. Get a coloring book.

Coloring books are a popular way to decrease stress. Recently, they've been proven to be therapeutic for adults, too. Also, a coloring book and some colored pencils are cheap, which is an added benefit for the typical broke college student. Coloring works the opposite side of your brain, your left brain than studying does, so it allows your right brain to rest. If you're really stressed, I suggest taking a quick study break with a coloring book. It really does help!

3. Follow puppy accounts on Twitter.

There's just something about looking at pictures or videos of cute puppies that makes you smile and relieve some stress. I mean, look at that face and try not to smile.

4. Exercise.

Exercise gives you more energy and releases endorphins in your body that boost your mood. I know what you're thinking, there's no way you are exercising during exam week. But even a few laps around the quad can help your blood keep circulating and help you feel more awake.

5. Netflix.

Be careful with this one! If you're gonna take a Netflix break, then watch a 20-minute episode to take a study break but make sure you don't end up binge-watching Netflix all day long.

6. Call your mom.

Whenever I get really, really stressed, I call my mom. For some reason, no one can quite calm me down like my mom.

7. Picture spring break.

No matter how stressed you're feeling, spring break is less than a week away. Hang in there! Picture yourself laying on that beach after being successful on your exams!