As the semester comes to an end, there is one last week that students need to endure: finals week. This week carries with it lots of stress and can overwhelm students. UIS held numerous events throughout the week of December 2nd aimed at helping students de-stress while also remaining productive.
Some of these events included Relax with SAC hosted by the Student Activities Committee (SAC), Finals Unwind: Festive Ornament Fun hosted by the Social Work Club, Pooches and Pizza hosted by Campus Recreation and the UIS Police Department, and Destress Bingo hosted by the Women’s Center. These events included activities such as arts and crafts, an oxygen bar, educational moments about managing stress during finals, and connecting socially.
According to Active Minds, an organization dedicated to saving lives through mental health advocacy, there are a number of actions students can take to manage stress during this difficult time. Students should be sure they do not neglect their sleep, eating, or exercise habits during finals week.
Active Minds notes that it can be difficult to keep academics from compromising your health. However, the organization emphasis the importance of remembering, “before you are a student, you are a person. Honoring your physical and mental needs during this time doesn’t make you weak or lazy. It just means you care for yourself as the whole, wonderful being that you are.”
There are many different actions and activities students can take part in to prevent and reduce the stress caused by college finals. Whether it is taking a walk or spending time with friends, it is important to remember to take care of yourself. Although it is a stressful time, once finals are finally completed, you have winter break to refuel and plan for next semester.
