Using the meditation room at the Barnes Center at The Arch is a great way to relieve stress.
Students: Projects, presentations and final exams can cause additional stress at the end of the semester. Although it can be overwhelming at first, there are many different ways to help manage end-of-the-semester stress.
Take breaks
It’s important to take study breaks that will help you de-stress and recharge. Consider attending a Stress Less Event. Multiple offices and departments across campus plan stress-busting events before and during finals week. Be sure to attend BREATHE at the Libraries, Orange After Dark’s Pancake Breakfast and the Dining Center Study Breaks. Find more information at the Barnes Center at The Arch website.
Can’t make it to a Stress Less Event? Take a break by attending a drop-in fitness class, reserving a time in the Crowley Family Mindspa or dropping into the Walters Pet Therapy Room during regular pet therapy hours. You can also take a break with SoulTalk on Thursday to connect with your peers for meaningful and supportive conversation. These are all great stress reduction strategies that can fit your schedule and needs.
Practice mindfulness
Practicing mindfulness is important to relieving stress, especially during periods of high stress. Mindfulness techniques like meditation and breathing exercises can help alleviate stress symptoms and help us refocus. Try practicing mediation on your own or stretching in your room. If you’re unsure how to start, you can find guided meditations in the Sanvello mobile app using your SU email address to access a free premium membership. Guided meditations are also available in person at the Barnes Center or Hendricks Chapel.
Prioritize sleep
Although pulling “all-nighters” is common around the end of the semester, it is still important to prioritize sleep. On average, adults need seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Try to make a study schedule that includes ample amount of sleep. Getting a good night’s rest will help improve your memory, focus and mood.
Need help managing your sleep habits? Order a free Sleep Kit from the Barnes Center. Each Sleep Kit comes with tips and information on better sleep habits, foam earplugs and decaffeinated tea.
Understand the resources available on campus
If end-of-the-semester stress becomes too difficult to manage on your own, reach out to the different resources on campus. There are people willing and able to help you succeed.
The Barnes Center health and wellness team has multiple resources for those seeking help, including Counseling and Health Care. Speak with a caring professional by attending a drop-in counseling session or making a Counseling or Health Care appointment.
If you’re not sure where to start with a question or concern, the Dean of Students Office is a great resource. They help students in a variety of ways, no matter the issue or challenge. To reach the Dean of Students Office, call 315.443.4357. Learn more at the Division of Enrollment and the Student Experience website.
Be sure to explore the other resources and services available across campus to find support and relieve stress as the semester closes.
If you are a student experiencing a mental health crisis, seeking support for sexual assault or relationship violence or needing medical consultation, you can access 24-hour support, seven days a week, 365 days a year by calling 315.443.8000.
