Exam time is just around the corner. This tends to be a time of great stress and anxiety in the life of a college student. I have written in the past about study skills and time management: learning how to use these skills appropriately can make a world of difference when it comes time for exams. Another life skill that is important and helpful throughout your time at Rose and even after you graduate is the skill of self-care. Your mind and body are two of the most important tools that you will use during your time here. Just as you constantly take care to regularly maintain and scan your computer for viruses and malware, you need to regularly give yourself time to rejuvenate and make sure you stay healthy. Positive self care techniques should incorporate three main areas: the mind, the body, and needs that are outside of the two.

The first self-care piece that I would like to talk about is physical self-care. When you are not feeling healthy physically, it is much harder to concentrate on what needs to be done and on completing your goals. Exercise and healthy eating are important ways to maintain your body. Also, be aware that if you are feeling sick, you should make an appointment to see a physician. This way you may be able to get better quicker.

The second piece is, of course, the mind or emotional component of health. Learn to limit yourself. As a student, you want to achieve. You would not be here if you didn’t, but you need to learn to not stretch yourself. Saying ‘no’ can become a powerful remedy for stress and overexertion. If you know how to say ‘no’, you will be able to focus on what you really want to do and not on things you may feel you should do. Also remember to give yourself permission to make mistakes. You are human, and sometimes we make mistakes or do not do things the way we should have, and that is ok. Learn from them and work to not make them again. Mistakes are only problematic when we make no attempt to learn from them.

Lastly, focus on the needs you have beyond the mental or physical. Take time to enjoy life and your experiences. Taking a few moments to slow down and do something that nourishes beyond eating. Develop a meditation or attend a service if you wish. If you enjoy and are moved by art, music, or literature take a few moments to seek these things out and give yourself time to enjoy them.

Remember that the most important thing is to take care of yourself. Exam week and the end of the quarter can be a difficult time, but if you take time to care for yourself you can make it a little easier.



This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or disorder. Nor is it intended to replace a consultation with a mental health provider.

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