As finals approach, stress levels among college students increase. 

The National Institute of Health reports that academic stress is a major factor affecting college students’ mental health. 

While academic success is important, maintaining mental health is equally critical. Students can use various techniques to manage stress, improve mental well-being and stay focused during finals. 

Students cope with the stress of finals in different ways. Josue Lopez, a student at Glendale Community College, relieves stress through physical activity such as running. 

While some students turn to exercise to ease academic pressure, others choose different outlets. GCC student Henry Suarez uses shopping as a way to reduce stress. 

“I guess shopping, it gets my mind off things,” Suarez said. “Browsing through shops and looking at clothes is very therapeutic.”  

People experience stress differently, and it is not always easy to recognize when stress is affecting them. Cornell Health lists a range of emotional and physical symptoms associated with stress. These include muscle tension, headaches, disorganization, anger, and sadness. Due to these symptoms being often dismissed, it is important to be mindful of how stress manifests. 

Once students recognize stress, developing healthy coping strategies becomes essential. 

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention lists several simple ways to reduce stress, including breathing exercises, journaling, spending time with friends, and meditation. Because stress management is personal, individuals should explore methods that work best for them.