by: Sophia Parent

Midterms are right around the corner and a lot of pent-up stress comes with that. Most students feel pressure to do well and spend every minute they get nose-deep in textbooks or laptops studying. No one wants to be overtly stressed. It’s not a good feeling and can put you off your game. Here 5 ways to manage stress during exam time. 

1. Take Breaks

Students have been constantly studying, and it can be difficult to manage stress levels, especially when they may not be comprehending the subject. By taking a 5-10 minute break in between subjects you can clear and refocus your mind. You will be less likely to burn out. During those 5-10 minutes you can grab a snack, take a walk, listen to music, or even catch up on your chores. 

2.  Eat Healthily

As cliche, as it sounds, eating a well-balanced diet, can not only give you more energy to study, but it can also give you more energy to cope with your stress. It has even been discovered that certain foods containing polyunsaturated fats including omega-3 fats and vegetables may help to regulate cortisol levels, which is a serotonin hormone that can reduce stress.

3. Stay Connected to Others

Staying connected to peers and even organizing study groups can help manage your stress levels immensely. Talking and sharing frustrations with peers is proven to not only help reduce stress but also find a solution to whatever problem you have been stuck on. Finding out someone is experiencing the same negative situation as you can also be quite comforting and will help you feel less burdened.

4. Maintain Normal Routines

It is extremely important to maintain a set and normal routine while experiencing loads of stress. Maintaining these routines will give a person a sense of safety and stability. It can also help manage the timing portion of your studying and help you with your study breaks.

5. Ask for Help

When you are experiencing stress in any type way for any reason is something that you shouldn’t have to handle alone. Reaching out to people and asking for help whether it’s for help studying or winding down is probably the best way to reduce stress. 

By following these 5 tips, you should be able to manage and possibly reduce your stress levels, especially during exams. Although everyone is different and may respond differently to certain practices, at least one of these 5 recommendations can help you with your stress needs.