The busiest and most stress ful season has arrived with finals right around the corner. Lamar has provided several ways for students to reduce stress.
Gray Library will host “Destress Before the Test,” 2-6 p.m., Dec. 5. Students will receive a coloring sheet and refreshments to take students’ minds of their studies.
“‘Destress Before the Test’ is an event we started a couple of years ago,” Elizabeth Sanders, interim department of Gray Library’s research engagement and learning, said. “The first one was in fall of 2022 and the purpose is to let students know that they are supported. Finals week is very stressful for a lot of different reasons.”
The library will provide wassail, a spiced drink, as part of the event while students color.
“It can be very easy to forget to eat or drink if you’re in the middle of an intense study session,” Sanders said. “So, it’s something that they can bring with them. The coloring helps the mind to relax for even just a minute.”
Students with test anxiety can contact the Student Health Center for help.
“They can go to our website and make an appointment themselves through their portal,” Shawn R. Gray, associate vice president of student affairs, said. “Or you could walk in and make an appointment. We make it very easy for students.”
The Psychology Clinic has flexible hours where students can get help with test anxiety.
“The services are provided by third-year graduate students under supervision and services are completely free of charge,” Melanie F. Webb, psychology clinic director, said. “The clinic is less restricted in the amount of sessions as we are not accepting payment or filing claims on insurance like most other clinics.”
Gray said there are also measures students can take to make their studies less stressful.
“The main thing is plan, start early and take your time,” Gray said. “When I say plan, I mean plan down to hours and minutes, not just days. Set yourself up for success.”
Physical activity can also help students to relax during finals. Deep breathing exercises, taking walks outside and exercise are good ways to relieve stress, Webb said.
Sanders said “Destress Before the Test” has proven to be beneficial.
“When we first tried it, we didn’t know if people would really like it, or how much feedback we would get,” she said. “But every time we have this event, everyone who comes up to us are grateful to have that moment.”
For more, visit the Health Center in the Sheila Umphrey Recreational Sports Center.
The Psychology Clinic is located at 200 Social and Behavioral Sciences Building.
