How to Deal With End of the Semester Stress

Hi there BB girls!  Today’s blog will focus on something that we are probably all struggling with at the time, and that is dealing with “end of the semester” stress.  With the holiday season in full effect, and the end of the semester approaching, you may find that you are feeling a lot more overwhelmed and anxious than usual.  You are not alone; university students everywhere are feeling the exact same way as you.  Here at Beauty and Brains, we not only care about your success as a Black woman, but we also care deeply about the status of your mental health, and ways that you can maintain a healthy mind and wellness.  Midterms were stressful enough, and I’m sure your mind is clouded with preparation for final projects, exams, and staying on top of your work, all while doing your best to prepare for the holidays as well.  Although these end of year rituals can take a toll on your state of relaxation, there are plenty of things that you can do to lower your stress levels, and begin enjoying your day-to-day life.  

One of my biggest suggestions for students to get through these last few weeks of the semester is to take your allowed absences from your classes.  School always comes first, however if you are not in a good place mentally, your studies may come crashing down on you.  Depending on how many times a week you have a course, you may be allowed anywhere between one to three absences for the semester.  Definitely take your personal days when you need them.  You can use that time to rest up and catch up on sleep, or you can take the time to catch up on overdue work from the semester.  However you choose to spend your personal days, that is up to you.  If you are anything like me and have a history of anxiety, you’ll want to schedule and plan your absences so that you can keep track of your attendance for the semester.  It’s important to go to class, but always take time for yourself when you need it!

Another suggestion for dealing with stress during this time, is to create a countdown to the end of the semester.  If you have a white board, or even a notepad, you can write out a countdown for the few weeks that you have left in the semester.  At the end of each week, you can reward yourself for getting through it by watching your favorite show on Netflix, or treating yourself to a meal from your favorite restaurant.  Whatever you want girl; you deserve it!  Countdowns can be very effective, because you are motivating yourself to complete all of your work for the semester, but you are also reminding yourself that all of your hard work will soon pay off!  If a countdown does not sound appealing to you, then instead you can lift your spirits by acknowledging at the end of every day why you are proud of yourself.  For example, “today I am proud of myself for completing my history paper.”  Show up for yourself girl! 

With the end of the semester intertwining heavily with the holiday season, that can be enough to cause some overwhelming feelings as well.  Instead of thinking about all of the presents that you have to buy, think about all of the reasons why the holidays make you happy!  Think about all of the reasons why you’re thankful, watch your favorite holiday movie, and drink some hot cocoa because this is the most wonderful time of the year!  This is exactly what I mean by aking care of yourself.  Surrounding yourself with essential oils and having a cup of tea while watching your favorite holiday movie is the perfect remedy for the end of the semester blues. 

We will all get through the remainder of 2020 together.  It has surely been a challenging year, but it is nothing that we can’t all handle together.  Keep your head up high, girl. Relaxation is key!  If you have any questions or need any advice, we are always here for you!  Head on over to our advice column for any advice you need on how to get through the end of the semester; we got you.  

From your BB girl, 

Ariana