Coping with Stress: How to Manage Anxiety During Crunch Time

Hey everyone! With finals around the corner and college apps on top of that, it can feel like stress is at an all-time high. As a senior, I’ve learned that while a certain level of stress is normal, it’s important not to let it take over. Here’s a mix of tried-and-true strategies for keeping stress in check during crunch time.

1. Take Breaks that Really Help.
It’s easy to feel guilty for taking breaks, but pushing yourself too hard actually makes things worse. The key is taking breaks that actually help you reset. Try a 5-minute stretch, a quick walk outside, or even a breathing app like Headspace or Breathe2Relax. These apps have short exercises that bring your focus back to the present moment and can help reduce stress.

2. Prioritize Sleep Over Cramming.
Staying up all night might seem like the only way to finish that paper or study for a big test, but studies show it actually backfires. Sleep is when your brain consolidates what you’ve learned, so pulling an all-nighter often makes it harder to remember things the next day. Try sticking to a bedtime that lets you get at least 7 hours of sleep.

3. Break the Big Stuff into Small Steps.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by everything you have to do, especially when you have big projects or papers due. Breaking down these huge tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can make things feel way less stressful. Use a planner, to-do list, or even an app like Notion to break down your work by day and prioritize what’s most urgent.

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help.
Sometimes the best way to cope is to talk it out. Chatting with friends, family, or a counselor can make a big difference when you’re feeling overwhelmed. They can help you problem-solve or just listen, which sometimes is all you need.

Remember, stress is totally normal, but you don’t have to let it take over your life. Finals and projects come and go, but taking care of your mental health should always be a priority.