Finals week is known to cause anxiety for many students. However, the University of Iowa tries to help ease the pain.
Many students pull all-nighters, said Barry Schreier, the director of the University Counseling Service. He noted that research recommends students study in roughly 45-minute increments and then take a 15-minute break.
However, some students complain that it is hard to get out of the break, Schreier said. To prevent getting too distracted, he suggested students leave their home when they study and limit access to their technology.
“It’s important to stay mindful,” he said. “Many students get caught up in the stress cycle; they are having a stressful week, which stresses them out, and then they become stressed that they are stressed. Stay mindful, and be reasonable. Stress isn’t wrong — it’s a normal reaction.”
Schreier said by staying reasonable through finals week, there is a smaller chance that the stress will turn into a “catastrophe-izing” event, which is when stress becomes anxiety.
Schreier also said students should eat as healthily as possible.
The IMU offers several de-stressing activities and snacks for students throughout the week. While studying, students can choose from a variety of healthy snacks, such as apples, oranges, and granola bars.
The IMU also has free popcorn, coffee, bagels, doughnuts, pancakes, and massages through Wednesday, according to the After-Class website.
“[The free popcorn] is a nice way to show student appreciation, and free food is always nice because we’re all broke college kids,” said Austin Luse, an IMU Welcome Center employee and popcorn server.
There will also be therapy-dog sessions on Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the 181 and 179 IMU.
Some students said they enjoy what the IMU offers for finals week.
“We offer basic food and quiet areas to help prepare everyone for finals week and take as much stress out as you possibly can,” said Joe Clarke, an employee at the IMU Welcome Center.
Last semester, UI student Madeline Dunbar said, she utilized the free popcorn and massages. Another student, Brandon Glinski, said he will definitely get free coffee.
However, UI student Jenna Nelson said she will probably not go to the IMU because it is a far walk and she needs to keep studying. When she needs a break, she said, she talks to her friends or takes naps.
Students have their own methods to help ease stress while studying.
Glinski said he enjoys playing games on his phone to help him relax.
Listening to music is a nice way to take a mental break, said UI student Nateshia Wilson.