Wellness Corner 6: Midterm Stress
In this week’s Wellness Corner (and the last of 2021), we’re tackling midterm stress. Kinkaid students often dread December because of the “impending doom of midterms;” it is easy to get overwhelmed and stressed when preparing for midterms because you’re being tested on everything you’ve learned since the start of the fall semester. However, stress in itself can be harmful, so be sure to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally during this time. Here are four tips to help you ace this exam season!
Manage your time
There is nothing that can add stress quicker than postponing your studying to the last minute and rushing to get things done. Create a detailed study plan with all the materials you have to go over and how you will divide it over the next few weeks or days. Talk to our learning specialists for any help with time and task management. Don’t stress if you’re not understanding a concept - look up videos on websites like Khan Academy or talk to your teachers.
Spend some time outside
The University of Georgia writes that “being in a park or green space automatically puts your body in a state of meditation and boosts endorphins.” Researchers have found that plants can calm you and lower blood pressure. Take a 15-minute study break outside (maybe after 1-2 hours of working) and read a book or simply observe nature.
Listen to music
Researchers have found that music soothes feelings of anxiety. Classical music helps with memorization and studying, slows heart rate, lowers blood pressure and even decreases levels of stress hormones. But hey, most high schoolers don’t relax by listening to Beethoven. Lucky for you, listening to any music you love will release neurotransmitters like dopamine that cue a natural high. If you don’t have your headphones handy, even humming or making your own music relieves stress.
Here are some great study playlists to listen to:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qap5aO4i9A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMiBrqV_4FA
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4kHxtiuML0
Watch a funny video
Laughter truly is the best medicine, as it is proven to lower tension, improve blood flow and cardiovascular health. Laughter releases endorphins and enhances your oxygen intake, stimulating your heart and other organs. Take a timed study break to scroll TikTok, watch some YouTube, or stream a comedy on Netflix. Be sure to set an alarm for when you want to end your study break because it’s easy to get pulled into the digital void. See if taking a five-minute break after every 20 minutes of studying works for you. If you don’t want to take your risks with the dreaded world wide web, you can chat with a fun friend or family member.
I hope these tips come in handy when you’re preparing for midterms. Remember: our counseling psychologists and learning specialists are always willing to help if you need anything.
Stay well,
Eshaan Mani -- Outreach Officer, Wellness Committee
