Hello, Braves!
The leaves have fallen, the turkey has been eaten, holiday music is playing in every store, and Elf seems to be playing on an endless loop. As far as mental health goes, many of us are at our happiest this time of year — looking forward to holiday traditions, gifts, and time spent with family and friends. For others, particularly those who experience mental health struggles and those who are experiencing grief and loss, this time of year can be far more difficult — filled with stress, sadness, and loneliness. For students, there is this one big thing standing in the way of them and their much-anticipated 2+ week break: FINALS. Cue the music that signals impending doom.
No matter the stressor, be it the holidays or finals,
there are a number of ways to support your mental health through the holiday season. These tips are good for teenagers and adults alike and, quite honestly, are helpful year-round. Specific to finals, here are some tips for students to make it through this
(relatively short) period of time and to come out on the other side of December 22nd (relatively) unscathed:
- Get enough sleep. Do not – I repeat, DO NOT – pull any all-nighters studying for finals. THIS WILL NOT HELP and will only lead to mental fatigue and burnout. Everyone has different sleep needs, but try to shoot for at least 8 hours of sleep per night leading up to and during finals. Your mental and physical health will thank you!
- Make a Study Schedule. Creating a schedule will help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed. It can also help you manage your time efficiently as you can better plan for what needs to happen and when. This way you don’t procrastinate!
- Exercise. Exercise can help reduce stress and improve memory and sleep. Pick a physical activity that you enjoy and aim for 30 minutes a day. Invite a friend to join you. Having a workout buddy will motivate you to go and make it more fun. Don’t feel like leaving your room? Turn on your favorite music and dance! Exercise is a great way to give yourself a brain break from studying.
- Eat Well. Junk food can lower your energy and make you feel worse. Eat fruits, vegetables, plenty of protein and whole grains to strengthen your immune system and stay energized.
- Practice mindfulness or other relaxation techniques. Click here for a message from Mindfulness Director Michelle Martin.
- Remember what is on the other side of finals: 2+ weeks off! Finals are tough and overwhelming, but just keep in mind that you’re almost done. You can do it!
As always, if you are finding it difficult to manage stress, or your feelings are more than stress, talk to someone. Work with your counselor, social worker or another mental health professional to find the best coping techniques for you. These are skills that will last far beyond finals.
In the midst of it all, I hope that you all are able to find joy in this holiday season. You all deserve it.
All the very best to you and yours this holiday season,
Libby Pollak
Brebeuf Jesuit School Social Worker
