University Health Services offers stress-reduction resources

With final exams scheduled to begin on Sunday, Dec. 14, the workload for many University of Wisconsin–Madison students is steadily increasing. Added stress, anxiety and pressure frequently accompany the final round of tests, research papers and presentations.

However, students don’t have to deal with those feelings by on their own, says Rob Sepich, student relations manager at University Health Services (UHS).

UHS offers numerous tips and resources for students feeling stressed out, run down or worn out. They range from simple stress-reduction techniques to free downloadable MP3 relaxation exercises, massage therapy or even meetings with professional counselors.

Students interested in conducting a free one-on-one session with a counselor should call the main UHS number at 608-265-5600 to schedule an appointment. Students can call the same number to make an appointment for 50 minutes of massage therapy for $40. To download an exercise, visit this site.

Sepich says basic stress reduction tips include:

• Set realistic goals of what needs to be accomplished and what can be achieved. Unrealistic expectations will produce a heavy burden of stress and anxiety.
• Get enough sleep. All-nighters are a part of finals lore, but studies have shown the brain remembers better and functions more efficiently with at least four to six hours.
• Eat right. A diet of pizza and Mountain Dew will probably compound a run-down feeling and cut down on the ability to stay focused on studying. A regular diet including plenty of protein and carbohydrates is important.
• Take short breaks to avoid feeling overloaded.
• Take a break from television news and newspapers.
• Finish one task at a time instead of tackling many problems at once.
• Reduce comparisons to other students. Try to compare performance in class only against yourself and previous semesters.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Turning to friends, professors or UHS for help in coping is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Additional UHS stress tips are available here.