What Do I Do With All My School Stress?

It is the last stretch for most students as the school year is coming to an end. They are excited for the summer and are already planning for parties, movie nights, and sleepovers until the dreaded finals extinguish their short-lived excitement. Reluctantly, you start studying and as if cramming your notes wasn’t bad enough, stress starts to build up and you start to wonder: “What do I do?”

There are many ways to deal with stress, but some are more effective than others. However, many students aren’t able to overcome the stress, which leads them to turn to very unwise methods that come with subsequent consequences.

Even the smallest things can ease stress. Zachary Van Bennekum, a West Ranch High lacrosse player, explained to JSR, “These last days are definitely the most stressful because there are infinite concepts to study and memorize. My favorite way of dealing with stress, however, is to watch funny Youtube videos for 25 minutes or so. After, I feel much more relaxed and I can concentrate better.”

Many students also decide to give their brains a break by taking a quick nap.

Rahil Hashmi, a West Ranch High freshman, told JSR, “When I get home from school I feel tired and I get very stressed that I have to study for finals. Because of this, I take short 20-30 minute naps. After I awake, I feel refreshed and ready to do work.”

Additionally, some students say working out at the gym or just jogging around the neighborhood can take your mind off of school.

“I like to go workout at the gym to deal with my stress. I won’t stay there for too long because I obviously need to study, but if I workout for one hour or so, I feel very awake and ready to ace the finals that are ahead,” added Matt Striplin, a West Ranch High student-athlete.

These are all great methods, but another effective method would be to talk to friends and joke with each other. Other students also explained that they would take out their phones and text their friends when they felt overwhelmed.

Regardless of which method you choose to relieve your stress, make sure you don’t make foolish decisions.