When professors pile on the homework and deadlines start getting closer and closer, it’s easy to get stressed. Each paper, assignment, or appointment you have to finish or attend becomes daunting, or even frustrating. The stress hormone, cortisol, can take a toll on your body and mind. When the level of cortisol is raised in your body, it often results in the dark circles and emotional breakdowns can be seen throughout finals week. Here are a few things to do to eliminate stress.

1. Sleep

When stress is running high, your sleep-wake cycle is interrupted. The first thing to go when projects pile up is sleep. College is infamous for all-nighters, and sometimes, it’s the only way to get things done. However, sleep is important. It allows you to function properly and focus on what you’re doing.

2. Let it out

Sometimes, when the workload of getting an education all builds up, the best thing to do is to let it out. Things like drawing, writing or vocalizing what is frustrating you can be helpful. The physical expression of emotions can release stress, and ease tension.

3. Eat

Eating healthy and staying hydrated will help with low energy levels. It’s important to keep a stocked fridge, for when the limited options from the dining hall are not satisfactory.

4. Physical Activity

Stretching out your muscles, and getting your heart rate up are easy ways to get yourself out of a rut. Hours of studying and essay writing means sitting for extended periods of time. The best way to get thoughts and ideas flowing is to stay active and move around.

5. Go Outside

Changing scenery can help keep distraction at bay. Fresh air and vitamin D are very important to staying healthy, and relieving stress.

6. Do things you enjoy

Between going to classes you didn't want to take in the first place, cleaning your room, and homework, sometimes college isn't any fun. Make time to do something that actually interests you. After all, what's the point of pursuing an education if you aren't having any fun?

7. Talk to Someone

Communicating your feelings to other people can help seriously reduce your stress level. Receiving feedback, or even just having someone to listen and understand, can make you feel considerably better. Can't think of anyone to talk to? Try your friends, roommates, parents, or school counselors.

8. Laugh

The whole 'laughter is the best medicine' thing? Well, it's true. Cortisol is decreased when you laugh, and the endorphins that laughing releases increase antibodies and immune cells. So when you're feeling stressed, watch an episode of the Office, or ask a friend to tell you their favorite joke.

9. Have Alone Time

Find a place where you can be alone, and just focus on yourself for a little while. Removing distractions, and isolating yourself from other people can help you refocus, and get things done.

10. Keep a planner

Being able to write everything down and keep track of your schedule prevents unnecessary stress. This way, you never forget about an assignment, and can easily record everything in one space

11. Have a homework day

When you're finally in a productive mood, go to the library, or a place where you focus best, and power through all of that homework. You will feel so much better once you did. Only break for snacks.

12. Be kind to yourself

Whether or not that last paper was your best, you are still pursuing an education. Don’t be too hard on yourself when you have a bad day. Negative emotions and low self-esteem will only worsen the mood you’re in. Love yourself, and celebrate your accomplishments, life is too short to dwell on one’s shortcomings.