Five presentations, two papers, and six finals. Bring it on. There are three more days of classes, five days of finals, 13 days until my 19th birthday, 19 days until Christmas, and 26 days until 2017. I'm not really sure what to make of all this. I am feeling excited for the semester to be over and for the holidays, of course, but I'm also feeling extremely overwhelmed by all the things on my to-do list. I know I'm not the only college student who's going through this. Not only can depression creep in during the holidays, but I can bet that the added pressure of the end of the semester only contributes to this. Although stress is bound to come around no matter what you do, there are some things you can do to get through the next few weeks.
1. Make a schedule
I write everything in my planner, or else I forget important dates. Due dates are crucial always, but especially during this time. Schedule days to work on your tasks and it will begin to feel a lot less overwhelming since you know exactly what's expected of you.
2. Leave some time for you
It's easy to forget to take care of yourself when so much is going on. Down time is just as important and it's the only thing that can get you through all your exams and projects. Take a hot shower and a nap, go on a milkshake run, have a dance party, and leave time for a Netflix break. Just be sure to actually get back to what you need to do.
3. Stay healthy
Although the vending machine and Domino's may seem like the most convenient option, it's not necessarily the best. While it's okay every once in a while of course, eating right and exercising is important for your mental and physical health. Junk food just doesn't give you the energy required to jam through your homework.
4. Laugh
It really is the best medicine. Forcing a smile or laughter has been proven to increase happiness. Fake it 'til you make it baby!
5. Ask for help
We're all in this together, and believe it or not, your professors really do want you to succeed. Don't be afraid to use their office hours and go to the learning center when you need to.
6. Get outside
This goes along with staying healthy, but it's just as important. Make sure you don't stay huddled up in the library for 48 hours. Fresh air will do you some good. You should try to get at least 15 minutes of sunlight a day.
7. Breathe
Before you know it, we'll have a month to rest and relax, before we have to do it all over again. Take it one step at a time.
