Katherine Acuna / Roundup
That dreaded time of the semester is here: finals week.
Just the mere thought of it brings a quiet terror to many students, whether they are fully prepared or not because the stress doesn’t abate.
The nightmare is the same each time: studying till the early morning hours, eyes glazed over and everything becomes a blur.
So, how do students relieve their stress and keep from descending into a pit of despair?
Most students know the basic steps of stress relief techniques, such as being prepared for the exam (duh!), a good study environment, time management, rest, positive attitude and enough sleep.
For instance, biology major Haley Espinosa, 19, gives her mind a rest from mind-numbing studying.
“What I usually do for stress relief when an exam is coming or too much school work, I take a break for about half an hour and then come back to it,” said Espinosa.
Other students take it one step beyond a simple break.
Michael Tod, undeclared, 21, sleeps away from the stress which is the simplest, most uncomplicated method and can be implemented anywhere, as many professors can attest to.
For some, the relaxation route doesn’t do the trick. It has to be physical all the way.
“I like going to the park and exercising, and just keep myself busy,” said biology major Jasmine Scott, 19.
Sports are another way to combat stress. Playing basketball is how psychology major Patsy Delgado, 18, keeps her under control.
Yet, there are methods that are unhealthful but still practiced by students.
“My stress reliever is cigarettes and coffee. That’s it,” said history major Riza Appling, 22, during a smoking break outside class.
Also, some come to depend on junk food for relief. Chips, ice cream, macaroni and cheese, candy and pizza may only give a brief respite for as long as the supply lasts.
If immune to these methods, there are other tricks to try.
How about screaming? Go outside and just scream out all the stress.
Spend time with pets. Both species will benefit from the interaction even if it’s merely a quick game or walks.
There is aromatherapy to try. You can find products at AromaTech to fill a room with calming scents, and for many this is more than enough to help them unwind. Some may live in shared spaces, however, but that doesn’t mean you need to limit yourself. Put your nose to work and find a scent that works, like peppermint oil, to invigorate and wake up your mind. Even if it means burning candles using something like a Scentsy wax warmer, being able to find the right scent for you could help when it comes to relaxation.
During an exam, take a sniff of the aromatherapy oil from a little vial or on a cloth, and it might just signal your brain to calm down or bring to mind a happy moment so that you can relax.
Another method of deep relaxation helps a student bounce back from stress.
“I meditate and afterwards I am more calm and relaxed,” said Marina Raya, 20, wildlife biology major.
Or even music can offer a release. Music is very powerful, it can uplift or depress depending on its message.
So, when in the throes of despair, think of a song that motivates and carry that feeling during the exam.
Well, whether it’s just one method or a combination of them, stress management differs from student to student.
The most important thing is to find one that works.
If you need additional help, counseling is available at the Health Center. All information is kept confidential.
For more information, visit the Student Health Center’s Web site at http://www.piercecollege.edu/offices/health_center/healthcounsel.asp or to make an appointment, call (818) 710-4270.
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