5 ways to manage stress during midterms
Midterms can bring exams, projects and deadlines all at once. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, a few small steps can help you manage stress and take care of yourself along the way.Ìý
Try these five tips to ease midterm stress and make this busy time feel more manageable.Ìý
ÌýÌýWrite down what’s stressing you outÌý
When you have a lot on your mind, start by getting it out of your head and onto paper. Make a list of everything competing for your time, including exams, assignments, work, relationships and other responsibilities.Ìý
Seeing everything in one place can help you identify what needs your attention now, what can wait and where you may need some extra support.Ìý
You don’t need to solve everything at once. The goal is simply to get a clearer picture of what’s ahead.Ìý
ÌýÌýDecide what needs your attention firstÌý
Once you know what you need to do, look at your upcoming deadlines and decide what to prioritize.Ìý
Start with a few questions:Ìý
- What needs to get done today?Ìý
- What can wait until tomorrow or later this week?Ìý
- Which assignments or exams will require the most time?Ìý
- Where might I need help?Ìý
Then, work backward from important deadlines and set aside time for the tasks you need to complete. A planner, calendar or to-do list can help you keep track of your priorities.Ìý
As you create your schedule, leave some extra time when you can and adjust your plan if something takes longer than expected.Ìý
ÌýÌýStart with one small stepÌý
If a big assignment or exam feels overwhelming, break it into smaller tasks. Ask yourself: "What can I do in the next 5–15 minutes?"Ìý
For example, you could:Ìý
- Review the instructions for an assignment.Ìý
- Gather your notes or study materials.Ìý
- Find one source for a paper.Ìý
- Make a study guide for one chapter.Ìý
- Email your professor or TA with a question.Ìý
Small steps can help you build momentum and figure out what comes next.Ìý
ÌýÌýTake care of the basicsÌý
Studying is important, but so are the things that help your brain and body keep going.Ìý
One quick way to check in with yourself is the HALT method. Ask yourself if you’re feeling:Ìý
- HungryÌý
- AngryÌý
- LonelyÌý
- TiredÌý
If the answer is yes, consider what you need before pushing through another study session. That might mean eating a meal or snack, drinking water, taking a break, connecting with someone or getting some sleep.Ìý
Sleep is especially important during busy academic periods because it supports focus, memory and problem-solving. Taking care of your basic needs can be part of preparing for an exam in addition to studying.Ìý
ÌýÌýAsk for help when you need itÌý
You don’t have to handle midterm stress by yourself. Think about what kind of support would be most helpful and who you can ask.Ìý
- Have questions about an assignment? Talk with your professor or TA, or explore tutoring resources for academic support.Ìý
- Feeling stressed or having trouble managing your time?Peer Wellness Coaching offers free peer-to-peer support with stress, time management, relationships, sleep and other challenges. You can learn from fellow students about what’s worked for them and come up with a plan of action that fits your needs.Ìý
- Need mental health support? offers counseling, therapy groups, workshops, Let’s Talk drop-ins and other mental health services.Ìý
- Need encouragement or another perspective? Talk things through with a friend, roommate, academic advisor or someone else you trust.Ìý
Whatever midterm season looks like for you, focus on what you can do one step at a time and use the support available when you need it.Ìý