Less caffeine, more sleep helpful during last
With the last week of classes and finals coming up, students are frantically trying to get last-minute assignments in and start studying for their exams. Stress levels are high, Thomas Cooper Library is packed and the last thing on most students’ mind is their health.
According to the National College Health Assessment 2012 for USC, stress is the No. 1 impediment to academic success, followed by anxiety and lack of sleep. Director of Healthy Carolina Jessica Johnston said that students can reduce their stress levels with a few simple steps.
“Don’t start something new,” Johnston said. “By now you know what works for you and stick to it. Also, be realistic. Don’t expect perfection, if you can’t get an A, try hard for the B.”
Coordinator of Academic Coaching and Engagement Jamie Shook said that one of the most important things students can do is properly structure their study time.
“Creating study goals is important,” Shook said. “When you sit down and begin studying create one or two goals of things you’re going to accomplish over the next study period. You will be more productive.”
Taking a break once in a while to watch a comedy movie or TV show might also be a good idea; humor is also recommended in relieving stress, Johnston said.
“Keep laughing,” she said. “Laughter reduces stress. During your study breaks, try watching a funny movie.”
With long hours of studying ahead of most students, allowing time to rest your eyes is critical.
“It’s important to give your eyes periodic breaks,” Johnston said. “Your whole body can feel exhausted just because your eyes are tired.”
With the stress of exams, students tend to consume large quantities of caffeine through coffee and energy drinks. While the caffeine will keep students up for the extra hours they need to cram, it may have adverse effects on their minds and bodies.
“Energy drinks and coffee with high amounts of caffeine and sugar stay in your system longer than you think and will keep you from getting much-needed sleep,” she said. “If over-consumed, they can cause stress and anxiety symptoms. Rethink your drink and hydrate with water.”
Although there are ways to reduce stress, Johnston emphasized the importance of recognizing true test anxiety and the need to contact a physician if symptoms persist.
“If your heartbeat is unusually faster, you’re sweating a lot and very nauseated, then you may need to seek help from a physician in the counseling center,” she said.
Shook explained that it is important for students to know the wealth of resources available to them on campus.
“ACE has coaching appointments available until finals week,” she said. “A lot of people will procrastinate so our coaches can meet with you and create the best strategy to effectively prepare for your exam.”
On Monday, Changing Carolina will partner with the Russell House for Carolina After Dark Finals Frenzy from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
“There will be healthy snacks, massage therapists, a chance for students to make their own stress ball, and more,” said Sarah Wilson, a Campus Wellness stress management graduate assistant. “There will be a bunch of ways for students to de-stress.”