Written by Adelina Rose-Gowens. Graphic by Adelina Rose-Gowens.
It’s finals week, which means summer break is on the way. It’s the light at the end of the tunnel, but the tunnel looks really, really long. Week ten means burnout, crying, late nights and little to no time for self-care in the midst of the chaos. It’s hard to find time to take care of ourselves during finals week, but it’s still important. Here are three ways to make sure you’re prioritizing your mental health this week:
1. Take a walk
Consider grabbing some bug spray and a picnic blanket to spend an afternoon in Forsyth Park or one of Savnnah’s beautiful city squares. Fresh air is known for boosting moods, lowering heart rates and increasing energy levels.
2. Work with a friend
It’s easy to isolate yourself during finals week to try to get work done, but you’re not alone. The vast majority of other students are also dealing with a heavy workload, so why not work together? Having a study session with friends is a great way to be productive while in a supportive community space.
3. Make a list
Although making a list may seem like a simple solution in the midst of a busy schedule, it’s a great way to empower yourself to visualize and prioritize what you need to get done. Also, it’s scientifically proven that when we complete individual tasks such as those on a to-do list, our brains release dopamine which makes us feel happier and more productive.
At the end of the day, finals are just finals. Your long-term mental and physical health are more important than any project or grade. Prioritize moments of rest in your busy schedule. From getting an extra hour of sleep whenever you can to relaxing between assignments, fighting burnout is critical, especially during finals season.
