Josie Cueter
As midterms approach, students everywhere feel the pressure of the long hours studying, upcoming deadlines and the stress of exams. While acing exams is important, maintaining mental health is just as crucial. Midterms are a time when the pressure of high school can become extremely overwhelming. However, with the right strategies, it is possible to manage stress and stay focused on exams at the same time. During midterm season, it is important to know how to cope with stress, recognize signs of mental strain and find support when needed.
Midterms can often take a toll on both mental and physical health, as the pressure to perform can heighten stress and anxiety. The intense focus on studying can eventually lead to a lack of sleep and focus, two essential things during midterms. Students may feel as if there is no time for self-care during midterms, but ignoring mental health can ultimately lead to a negative effect on academic achievement. Although it may not seem like it, there are multiple ways to deal with the constant feeling of stress and anxiety that in the end will strengthen your performance on exams.
Among the various ways to cope with declining mental health during midterms, we have found that time management, maintaining self-care, and a beneficial sleep schedule are among the most favorable. To improve time management and avoid procrastination, create a study plan by breaking down material into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on one subject at a time and set achievable goals for each exam. Breaks in between study sessions are crucial. During midterms, it can be easy to fall into unhealthy habits such as eating junk food and neglecting exercise. Physical health plays a significant role in managing stress. Remember time for exercise integrated into your study schedule, while remembering to maintain a healthy sleep schedule. According to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, seven to nine hours of rest every night is the average recommended amount of sleep for high schoolers. Also, taking a few minutes to clear your mind and not focus so much on studying, can make a huge difference in how you feel.
In the midst of midterm preparation, it is important to remember that well-being goes beyond study habits. Making time for activities that bring you joy, such as spending time with friends, enjoying a hobby, or simply relaxing can relieve stress. Allowing yourself to recharge by staying away from textbooks can improve your mental health and focus when returning to study. Being in the right mindset is essential for achievement. The mixture of productivity and relaxation is the perfect recipe for success.
As midterms draw near, taking care of mental health can play a key role in academic success. By managing time effectively, prioritizing rest, maintaining healthy routines, and dedicating time to enjoyable activities, you can minimize stress and allow yourself to stay focused. Fostering a positive mindset and ensuring a balance between work and relaxation will help exams be navigated more successfully. Midterms are a small chapter of an academic journey, and by taking care of your well-being along the way, you will be better equipped when the time comes for your exams. Balancing study with self-care is not just a strategy, it is a necessity for both academic and personal growth, so during exam week be sure to make self care number one on your to-do list.
