Let’s face it, being a student is one of the most challenging jobs in the world. Between school, extracurricular activities, and social life, it’s no wonder young Americans are more stressed than ever. Nearly half of Generation Z students feel they aren’t doing enough to manage their stress. Students are overwhelmed between classes, homework, exams, and standardized tests.
You can’t imagine your mental health’s impact on your studies. Preparing for these important academic milestones doesn’t just mean cramming but also knowing how to adopt the healthiest mindset to achieve your goals.
If you’re feeling exhausted, try these simple tips for taking care of yourself while you study.
1. 1. disconnect from social media.
If keeping up with your followers is too distracting, take the time to log out of apps like Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter, or even delete them completely. Social media is a great way to feel connected to the world, but the constant stream of information can also be overwhelming. Deleting apps from your phone is the easiest step to take when you’re overwhelmed with studying or need a cleanup.
If you need a distraction, try not to turn to your phone immediately. Instead, New York psychologist Paulette Sherman, Ph.D., recommends “taking deep breaths, spending time in nature, laughing over lunch with a friend, or dancing to your favorite song.” This can change your energy, calm you down, energize and lift your spirits.”
2. Find a comfortable study space.
Everyone’s preferences are different when it comes to studying spaces. Some people work well in quiet areas, while others find it too soft and uncomfortable. Some people are more productive in their room because it’s a small space (if you’re like me, you’re too tempted to take a nap to focus on getting things done). When embarking on a course of study, finding a balance between comfort and structure is essential. Find a place without outside distractions so you can be in your most productive and focused mental space.
3. Set aside 30 minutes to be active.
Marathon sessions may seem like the best option before a big exam, but intermittent breaks can help you stay focused and relaxed. Going for a walk, stretching for a few minutes, or doing some yoga provides a healthy distraction and can renew your energy. Allow yourself to step away from work and silence your brain for a few minutes. You’ll indeed feel more focused when you return.
4. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
It may seem silly to include something so simple on a self-care list, but students often need more hydration and fuel during increased stress. Give your body the necessary nutrients to stay healthy, alert, and focused. Carry a bottle of water with you and ensure you always have a healthy snack in your bag; ignoring your appetite will keep you energized and productive. You can even download this app to set reminders and hold yourself accountable for drinking eight glasses of water daily.
5. Make a 20-minute playlist of essential songs.
There are many different opinions on what music is the best playlist for studying. You can stick to what you like, rotating your favorite artists or albums. Or you can choose something simple, like instrumental music from movies or acoustic versions of pop hits. These playlists keep you focused and calm, making your study space more enjoyable. If you don’t prefer to study music, try an app like Noisli to create your ideal study environment and increase productivity.
6. Turn to your friends when you need a break.
One of the best ways to recharge your batteries is to spend time with the people you love the most. Whether it’s your roommates, classmates, or family, take time to talk about your day with someone you trust. Keeping all your feelings to yourself will only increase your stress levels. As Adam Garner, former head of community and impact at DoSomething, says, even “a 30-minute conversation about something you love with someone you care about can do wonders for your brain.” Surround yourself with supportive and caring people when you need them most.
