WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY
“Help will always be given at Hogwarts to those who ask.” – Albus Dumbledore
Finals week is here, and it can feel like you're stuck in the middle of a Triwizard Tournament—without the dragons (though exams can be just as fierce). But remember, help is always available if you just ask for it.
Before you reach out, you need to recognize when stress is sneaking up on you. So how do you know when you're stressed or anxious? Here are some signs to watch out for.
- Feeling lost or confused: Struggling to wrap your head around concepts that are usually simple.
- Difficulty making decisions: Spending way too much time deciding what topic to study next.
- Lack of motivation: Staring at your notes, but none of it seems to stick.
- Trouble sleeping: Restless nights, your mind racing about exams.
- Headaches or upset stomach: Stress can manifest physically too.
- Fidgeting or nail-biting: Little habits like these show your body is trying to let off some steam.
If any of these feel familiar, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Many students face this during finals, but there are ways to beat the stress. Here are some tips.
- Declutter Your Study Space. A messy desk equals a messy mind. Spend ten minutes tidying up, and you’ll find it easier to concentrate.
- Manage Your Time. The secret to reducing stress is good time management. Break up your study sessions, take regular breaks, and plan each study block as if it’s an appointment. Even a small task can give you a sense of progress and boost your confidence.
- Read Something Fun. Taking a short break with a fun book can reduce stress and give your brain a breather. It’ll help you come back to your studying feeling more refreshed.
- Cut Back on Caffeine. It feels like a lifesaver, but caffeine can make you feel more stressed and jittery. Try switching out that extra cup of coffee for water or herbal tea.
- Sleep Well. Sleep and stress go hand in hand. Lack of sleep can increase stress, and stress can keep you awake. Aim for a good 8 hours of rest and create a sleep routine that helps you relax—try reading a book or listening to calming music before bed.
- Exercise Regularly. Getting some exercise doesn’t mean you need to start training for a marathon. Just take a walk, do a bit of dancing, or jog in place. It helps relieve stress and boosts your mood.
- Cut Out Social Media. Social media can be a huge distraction during finals. Turn off your notifications or try apps like "Forest" to keep you focused. Remember, every minute you spend focused is a step toward acing that exam.
- Take Breaks and Reward Yourself. Celebrate your effort. Take small breaks between study sessions, grab a snack, or watch an episode of your favorite show. It’s important to keep your motivation up by rewarding yourself.
You’ve Got This!
Finals week is tough, but you’re tougher. Remember to give yourself credit for every step you take towards reaching your goals. Ask for help when you need it, take care of yourself, and keep going—you’re capable of amazing things, and you’ve got the AU community cheering you on every step of the way. Stop by the library at either AU campus, not only to study but also to relax—sometimes a change of scenery can make all the difference.
More Information about Assumption University of Thailand (AU), please visit:
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