Mental health awareness: navigating finals with a clear mind

by Abigail Williamson, Contributor

This article contains quotes by GSW students who wish to remain anonymous.

As the semester draws to a close, many college students find themselves facing the overwhelming challenge of final exams. While this period is crucial for academic success, it is also a time when mental health issues can peak.

Research indicates that stress levels among students significantly increases during finals, often leading to anxiety, depression, and burnout. You are not alone. According to a study by the American College Health Association, nearly 45% of college students reported feeling more than average stress, and 30% felt that stress negatively affected their academic performance.

“Finals are stressful, personally, I procrastinate and let it all build up and then it hits all at once tanking mental health,” said one GSW student.

Understanding the connection between mental health and academic stress is the first step in making a change in its effects. Here are some strategies, suggested by students, to help maintain mental well-being during these challenging times:

1. Develop a Study Schedule: Create a realistic and balanced study plan can help manage time effectively and reduce last-minute cramming. Allocate specific times for studying, breaks, and productive activities to maintain a healthy balance.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporating mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga can help reduce stress and improve concentration. Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided sessions that can be easily integrated into your routine. Lucky for us at Georgia Southwestern, we offer counseling and mental health activities through CARE.

3. Stay Physically Active: Regular physical activity is known to boost mood and energy levels. Even a short walk or a quick workout can release endorphins that help lower stress. Many students find that exercise is a great way to take a break from studying and clear their minds.

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating nutritious meals can have a significant impact on your mental health. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugar and opt for balanced meals that provide sustained energy throughout the day.

5. Seek Social Support: Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional comfort and reduce feelings of isolation. Sometimes, just talking about your worries can lighten the load.

“Planning things out helps a lot to have that structure and making sure you have the time to relax and take for yourself,” said another GSW student.

During finals, it’s also essential to recognize when professional help might be needed. We offer counseling services that can provide support and resources if you are experiencing severe stress or mental health issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you find yourself struggling.

“I was scared to reach out for help, yes. Having a counselor just helps having someone to talk to about everything,” said a third GSW student. “The advice that is given is extremely helpful and they put new insights and ideas in your head.”

Remember, it’s normal to feel stress during finals, but taking proactive steps can make a significant difference. By adopting healthy habits and seeking support, you can navigate this challenging period with resilience and clarity. You’re not alone in this journey; many students have faced and overcome these same challenges.

“Knowing I’m not alone and have people to talk to is extremely helpful. Just the fact of knowing you’re not alone changes something in your mind,” a fourth GSW student stated. “Knowing you’ll always have someone in your corner to help you just creates a sense of comfort and stability in a sense.”

While finals can be a stressful time, they don’t have to take a toll on your mental health. By implementing these strategies and seeking support when needed, you can maintain a healthy mind and perform your best academically.