Managing Stress During Finals

Finals are right around the corner, and with them, comes a lot of stress. Law school is stressful in general, but finals stress is even worse. Managing that stress is super important for your mental health, physical health, and can even have a negative effect on your grades.


Have a study plan: This doesn't have to be written out or anything like that, but having an idea of what needs to be done when can be super helpful. If you know what you need to accomplish, you will be more effective and efficient, which will let you get more done. Another vital aspect to a study plan is knowing when you will study. During the two or three weeks of finals, you don't have classes or pretty much any other obligations. That being said, it can be easy to not want to do anything. however, this set up also provides a ton of flexibility. Maybe you study best at night and sleep most of the day. That's fine. Perhaps you like to study first thing in the morning and work until the evening, and have your evenings off. You can also do that. Maybe you like the normal pattern of classes- study from 9 to 4 or something like that. Whatever is best for you, make sure to stick to it. Plan that you will study at this time and hold yourself accountable

Strategically decide where you will study: I do not like studying at the library during finals because the stress of other students makes it hard for me to be effective. However, I can't study all day at home because I won't get much done. I have found another school on campus that has a great study area, and I love to study there during finals. It is also really close to the gym, so I can take a study break and workout. Wherever you plan on studying, make sure it is a good decision for you. If being around other law students during finals stresses you out, maybe don't study at the law school. If you don't get anything done at your house, maybe go somewhere else. A lot of people like to study at coffee shops, but if you know you get distracted there, it may not be the best place for you to study.

Plan breaks: You cannot study all day everyday during finals. Trust me, for your mental and physical health and wellbeing, it is not possible, nor is it worth it. Make sure to take time for yourself- go workout, grab a meal with friends, binge-watch some episodes on Netflix or Hulu. Self care is very important during finals, and you need to take time for yourself to recharge and relax during your days of studying.

Have a meditation space: You don't have to meditate to have a meditation space. Have items that can relax you, put you in a good mood, and give good vibes. For me, it is my salt lamp, my oil diffuser, the lights off, and Sleeping At Last's Atlas: Space playing in the background. Just doing these three things brings good vibes to my room and helps me relax. Some other items that can help create a meditation space and good vibes are candles, tea, cushions, crystals, incense, or zen fountains. Whenever you need to take a break, this can be a great way to relax, be mindful, and relieve some stress.

Reach out to loved ones: Law school and finals are tough and can be very stressful. If you are struggling, reach out to a trusted loved one: family member, partner, close friend. Seeking counseling is another good way to seek help to manage the stress of law school. If you need to talk to someone, and feel like you have no one, please reach out to me. My inbox is always open!

What are some ways you manage the stress of finals? Leave your best advice or method in the comments!!