Did you know that stress is a natural result of learning and growing? We experience stress when we encounter a challenge or problem to overcome. For students studying for final exams, adapting to a work placement, or completing a final project, there is no avoiding some level of stress this April. But did you know you could stress better?

Tips to Manage Stress in April

Plan Ahead: Schedule study, work, and break times a head of time to avoid cramming or all night study sessions. Think about setting realistic goals for yourself and break large tasks or topics into smaller chunks.

Take Breaks: Taking breaks helps to prevent cognitive fatigue, reduces stress, and maintains motivation. Think about scheduling active breaks where you go for a walk, lift weights, try yoga, or practice MindWell’s Take 5.

Self Care: It can be easy to forget to take care of yourself during exams. Physical activity, eating nutritious food and keeping hydrated will help to manage stress and exam anxiety. What you need for self care is individual – what works for one person, might not work for someone else. So keep in mind self care can also include actions and activities like breathing exercises, mindfulness, self-compassion, and gratitude practice. MindWell’s On Demand Library is a great place for self-care resources.

Sleep: Students need sleep to help them successfully complete exams and final projects. Sleep helps our brain consolidate information and memories, and enhances recall. Sleep also helps us regulate emotions and reduces stress, which can help improve focus and motivation. For some great tips on how to improve your sleep, watch the presentation from Dr. Elizabeth Hebert.

Try our Stress Better Events: Campus Well-Being invites you to participate in our Stress Better events to reset and refresh.

Follow the links to learn more:

• De-Stress & Do Your Best with a warm beverage, soothing sounds, mindful colouring and other quick calming activities
• Visit with a therapy dog
• Create an inspirational button
• Take a study break to play board games
• Book a 15-Minute Massage