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End of Year Stress Management
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As the end of another academic year approaches, it is important to be mindful of the added stress that scholastic, employment-oriented, and transition-related pressures place on every member of our campus community. The stress and anxiety associated with this time of year have the potential to negatively impact one’s health and well-being, as well as their ability to succeed academically and in other areas.
While most students will experience some level of nervousness before exams, this anxiety can become problematic if it begins to interfere with your ability to prepare for and perform well on tests. If you are experiencing text anxiety, be sure to allow adequate preparation time, so that you will have an opportunity to study and know the material well enough to recall it automatically, even when feeling nervous. Other anxiety-reducing strategies include:
• Establish study goals that focus on reviewing the main concepts and important sections of each course. Take each goal one step at a time.
• Remember that a test is only a test – it is not a reflection of self-worth. Counter negative self-talk with positive, affirming statements.
• Take care of yourself by continuing to exercise good nutrition, physical activity, and sleep habits.
• Curb excess anxiety during the test by working on the easiest portions first and focusing on answering the question/showing what you know, as opposed to what your grade will be. Relieve physical tension by tensing and relaxing muscles throughout your body and taking a couple of slow, deep breaths.
Even when ultimately positive and growth-oriented, life transitions – such as those that occur at the end of an academic year – are often stressful. Feeling emotional or unmotivated can be related to the anticipation of a major change, and as such, you may find it more difficult to cope with other life issues during this time. Help put things in perspective by reminding yourself that you are in a transition period and that it is a naturally stressful time. Reflect upon important experiences and what you have learned about yourself that will benefit you in the future. It may also be helpful to reflect upon how you have successfully coped with and adjusted to previous life transitions.
More information and helpful tips for coping during this time can be found at:
• Is it Possible to Overcome Test Anxiety?
(http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/test-anxiety/AN02021)
• Seniors’ Concerns (http://www1.villanova.edu/villanova/studentlife/counselingcenter/infosheets/seniorsconcerns.html)
If you are experiencing ongoing anxiety, or who have experienced a life event or crisis that has increased the stress in their lives, may access free short-term individual counseling at UWM’s Norris Counseling and Consultation Services. Call 414-229-4716 to schedule an appointment.
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10,000 Steps-April 1-April 28, 2013
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Get active, one step at a time.
Don't have time to exercise? Looking for an incentive to be active? Participate in 10,000 Steps and increase your activity, one step at a time.
Track your activity each week, earn points, and win great prizes.
First 50 students to register receive a free pedometer!
For registration information go to www.getsteppin.uwm.edu
Sponsered by the Department of Recreational Sports and Fitness, Norris Health Center and the Peer Health Advocates.
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