How to Boost Your Mental Health During Finals Week With 8 Simple Habits

Finals are right around the corner, and if you are anything like me, you might be starting to feel the pressure. The long days spent studying, early mornings and late nights can really take a toll on your mental and physical health. But with a few mindful habits, you can make this stressful period so much more manageable. Here are some of my top tips that have helped me stay calm and focused throughout finals week.  

1. set Small Goals

It may seem like you have too many things to do and not enough time to do them. I have found that breaking tasks into small, achievable goals can make a huge difference. Instead of tackling your entire quarter’s worth of Chemistry notes, aim for something more specific, such as “study Chapter 3 flashcards” or “review Week 5 lab notes.” Every time you check something off, you gain a new sense of accomplishment and motivation. So, grab your planner and conquer finals one step at a time!

2. stay Connected

It may be tempting to isolate and cram during finals, but staying connected with friends and family—whether at Cal Poly or back home—can help you recharge and reduce stress. It does not have to be anything big. Even a quick coffee break at Scout’s with friends or a FaceTime chat with loved ones can make a difference. Sometimes, just talking to someone is all the support you need to push through the week.

3. Do Something You Enjoy 

Grades are important, but do not forget to carve out time for activities that make you happy. Whether it is watching an episode of your favorite show or exploring Downtown SLO, doing something you enjoy can give your brain a much-needed break. For me, it is cafe hopping or going on a short hike with friends. You do not need to spend hours—just enough time for you to recharge.  

4. Move Your Body  

When finals week has you glued to your desk, take a break to move! A walk around campus or even a quick workout at the Rec can do wonders for your mood. If I am extremely short on time, I usually multitask by listening to podcasts or lectures on the treadmill.  

5. fuel Your Body With Nutritious Foods

What you eat matters just as much as what you study. While it is fine to indulge in fast food or energy drinks once in a while, relying on them all the time can take a toll on your body. A registered dietitian from Healthline notes that nutritious foods such as berries and dark chocolate can maintain energy levels, improve concentration and help you stay sharp during long study sessions. Remember, a well-fueled brain is a productive brain. 

6. Celebrate Wins, Big and Small 

Finals week is tough, so take a moment to celebrate every victory, whether it is finishing a practice test, nailing a tricky concept or just showing up to your study session. Acknowledging your progress, no matter how small, keeps you motivated and reminds you of how far you have come. Also, treat yourself to something special once in a while, whether it be your favorite snack or activity. You are doing amazing—do not forget to give yourself some credit!

7. Decorate Your Space 

Your study place can have a big impact on your focus on mood. Personally, I get easily distracted by clutter, so I find it super hard to concentrate when there are a million different things on my desk. In a blog post, Maryville University recommends adding a few personal touches like succulents, photos, candles or mini figurines, which can help reduce anxiety and increase focus. Plus, this is a great way to create a space that feels like your space. 

8. Adopt a Nighttime Routine 

I cannot stress how important a good night’s sleep is. Sometimes, I find it more useful to sleep an extra hour than study an extra hour. A consistent nighttime routine is key to winding down and ensuring you are well-rested for the next study session. Take some time to unplug—get off TikTok (trust me on this one), dim the lights and relax. I like to read a book for a few minutes every night. Dr. Erica Jensen, a University of Michigan research professor, mentions that getting quality sleep boosts your memory and concentration, helping you perform at your best on exam day. 

I hope you find these tips helpful. Good luck with finals! You got this!

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