Managing Stress During Finals

By Kalie Crago, Graduate Intern, ’20

December marks the beginning of holiday season fanfare. With it, however, also brings the encroaching threat of finals. Between tests, papers, presentations and exams, it’s no surprise that this time of year is considered one of the most stressful at colleges across the nation.

Therapy dogs help students relieve stress

Although your student may feel overwhelmed and under limited time constraints, it’s important to remind them to take regular breaks to relax and rejuvenate. Students can watch a movie with friends, admire the Commons’ holiday lights or take a much-needed nap. Emerson recognizes the need for a balance between school and life and ensures a positive environment for mental health even during the stress of finals.

One great resource for students is Emerson’s Cirque de De-stress. Hosted by the Iwasaki Library, Counseling and Psychological Services, Disability Services and Student Affairs, Cirque de De-stress is held several times a year to ensure that stress levels remain in check. Students can sign up ahead of time to reserve chair massages and a therapy dog appointment or drop by at any time to take part in the other festivities such as Arts & Crafts. The next Cirque de De-stress will be held this Friday, Dec. 7 from 1-4 p.m. Make sure to remind your student to stop by for a well-deserved break!

Though this time of year is undoubtedly busy for students, it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming one. Students should make sure to regularly balance their work with periods of relaxation. Keeping one’s spirits up is just as important in finals success as hard studying. Remember too that break and the holiday season are just around the corner; your students have earned it!

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