5 Things to Do If You’re Sick During Finals
Unfortunately, no, I did not come up with this idea out of nowhere. It’s my first finals in university ever, and I somehow caught strep throat and a grueling fever. Lovely, right? And perfect timing! It partially makes sense that during this stressful time my immune system would fail me. I write this article sitting in the McGill Student Health Services (Brown Building) waiting in line with a slip like at the deli, except it’s a clinic. It totally sucks that I’m in this position right now, but here are 5 things you can do to make the experience of being sick during finals a little less tragic.
1. Make sure to get the medical assistance you need
Like I said, I’m writing this article in line at the clinic. I’m pretty sure I have a bacterial infection (strep throat), so I’m under the impression I’ll need antibiotics. If I had a cold, it would be easier to get OTC symptom relief medication, but whatever the case is, it cannot hurt to see a doctor or nurse at a clinic to get a professional opinion on what’s going on with your body! Plus, there’s a major psychological aspect of comfort in seeing a doctor that may help a bit in this stressful time.
2. Don’t be afraid to ask for space or to be with others
If you have a roommate or you’re in a single, don’t be afraid to tell your roommate what’s going on and ask for what you need. Especially when it comes to you friends! Trust me, there will be a time when they are sick and you remember how they took care of you, so don’t feel like a burden at all! It’s not your fault that you’re sick, but you just have to deal with it and try to heal ASAP. if you feel more comfortable healing alone, ask for that space. If you don’t want to be alone, ask a friend to stick by you or visit you.
3. Stay hydrated
It is so so important to stay hydrated when you are feeling under the weather! I love Powerade or Gatorade when I am sick because I am usually not very hungry, so these drinks make sure my body has lots of sugar and electrolytes. Plus they taste really good (I like the blue and orange ones:).
4. Sleep as much as you can
Sleep is the very best cure, and even though it’s not conducive to studying optimally, if you aren’t well rested, you won’t be able to focus and study in a productive way. Take care of your body first, and then your body will repay you by being able to learn what you need to know with a clearer mind.
5. Remember that you are going home soon!
The beauty of finals is that classes are over, and shortly, you’ll be heading home! As someone who gets anxious being sick and away from home, remembering this fact has offered me solace.
I hope you are on-the-mend and taking care of yourself to the best of your ability! I believe in you xx, Britt