Before finals, CAPS offers stress relief

With finals week approaching, it’s normal for college students to begin feeling stressed.

Information from IU’s Counseling and Psychological Services and activities going on around campus could help students work against these feelings.

Chris Ann Meno and Ginny Kington from CAPS sat down with the Indiana Daily Student to provide information on how to avoid becoming stressed out.

IDS: What are some symptoms of a high stress level?
CAPS: There are emotional and physical symptoms. Physical symptoms can be headaches, stomach problems, muscle tension, fatigue, or sleep and
appetite can increase or decrease. Emotional symptoms are more mood swings, irritability, feeling more overwhelmed, difficulty coping with everyday life, nervousness and anxiety.

IDS: What types of activities can a student participate in to help them feel less stressed?
CAPS: Basic self-care such as sleeping, eating and exercise. These are usually the first to go, and they are important in helping us manage our mood. Massages can be helpful in helping the body relax physically. There are also deep breathing exercises. Students can go to the CAPS Web site and download MP3 files of deep breathing exercises onto their iPod. People often try relaxation exercises for a minute or two and realize it doesn’t work. It’s like lifting weights: If you do it once, you won’t get much benefit, but if you keep doing it, you’ll get more benefit. Do them consistently and daily.

IDS: What is the best approach to take when beginning to study for finals to avoid getting stressed?
CAPS: Time management and planning are very important. Spend time now looking at how you’re going to use dead week and finals week to spread out your study time. Plan to take breaks – they’re not optional, they’re necessary. Break down large projects such as papers into smaller pieces. Take time to do enjoyable activities such as play a sport or take a walk, something to get your mind off of the work.

IDS: Are there any special foods to eat or stay away from to help not be as stressed?
CAPS: Incorporate things you always should be such as fruits, vegetables and lean protein. Carbohydrates and green vegetables help with production of serotonin in the brain, which help you feel more relaxed. Stay away from excessive caffeine and energy drinks. They will make you feel more jittery and stressed. Avoid alcohol and drugs as well.

IDS: How do all of these activities help the body relax?
CAPS: Exercise and fun can help our muscles relax so we can feel less tense and maybe even have fewer headaches and better concentration.