Midterm Stress

By THE COUNSELING CENTER

Midterms are a stressful part of the school year. It seems every class has a major assignment or exam that all fall within a week or two. The best advice is to keep things in perspective. Stress is normal when deadlines are near, but midterms are just part of the semester cycle. Sometimes we amplify our stress because everyone else is stressed too. Recognize what is stressing you and what you really must accomplish for your classes.

Some ways to make midterm work more manageable:
Organize yourself and prioritize your work. Make sure you set up your time wisely and put the time where you need it most.
Don’t wait until the last minute to write your papers. Leave time for revision.
If you have a study guide, answer all the questions in detail. It is probably what your professor thinks is most important and will be on the exam.
Don’t just read or highlight your textbook. Take notes on the key topics listed at the beginning or end of the chapter.

Some self-care tips to reduce your stress while you study and work:
Continue to eat and drink healthy. Too much sugar and caffeine may give you a rush to study, but it can also make feelings of stress worse.
Take regular 20-minute breaks. This will help you clear your mind.
Try to sleep regularly. Sleep is an important part of brain and body functioning. An all-nighter may seem productive, but it doesn’t help maintain information.
Get outside, exercise, or even take a walk! Allowing your body to move, increases blood flow and oxygen to your eyes, brain, and body.
Schedule some fun in person activities with friends. Connecting with others helps to reduce stress reactions in the body.

Ask for help when you need it:
Contact your professor and ask for clarification on what you’re confused about and/or to make sure you are on the right path. A little office time with your professor may help a lot.
Contact the academic success center to discuss your issues
Writing center appointments can help you organize and help with your paper.
Study Clusters and tutors can help with your course work.
Contact the counseling center about test anxiety. Sometimes just the thought of taking a test can cause stress, no matter how prepared you are.

If you would like to discuss keeping yourself safe, alcohol use, or if you want to come and talk about anything, reach out to the Counseling Center. Come see us at 441 Western Ave. for an initial screening session. We also have evening hours! We are open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please call 518-454-5200 with any questions. Follow us on Instagram @csrcounselingctr to learn about upcoming events.