5 Ways To Avoid Midterm Breakdowns

Tips from the UVM BORED Team for college students to avoid stress and keep getting work done during the busy upcoming midterm season!

1. Eat 3 meals a day!

This may seem a little obvious, but we know how easy it can be to forget a meal or skip it because you don't have the time when things seem stressful. But the reality is, your body really needs that food to keep going--especially when you're stressed! Even if it means setting an alarm on your phone, your body will thank you for taking the time to give it some love.

2. Try the 45-15 rule.

Although it is often feels like the best way to get everything that you need to done is to plow through it for hours on end, there is an inevitable burnout at the end (or in the middle) of that homework marathon. The best way to tackle lots of work, is to be sure to give your brain some rest by working 45 minutes-on, and then 15 minutes-off. That way, you'll keep up the pace without burning out.

3. Keep your blood moving!

One way to spend those fifteen minutes of brain-rest time? Exercise! Standing up from your desk for a few minutes to stretch, do some jumping jacks, and take some deep breaths will shake up your body enough to revitalize you before you have to launch into more work.

4. Prioritize.

The truth is that there will be times when you simply can't get it all done. If it seems like this is going to be the case (or even if it doesn't), try tackling your work by making a list of the most important to the least important, and work on it from one end to the other. That way, the worst of it is over in the beginning and you know that if you don't make it to the end, it won't be the worst thing in the world!

5. Try working in a new environment.

We know how easy it is to fall in love with a study nook and have trouble working anywhere else, but changing up your study location could actually be a figurative "breath of fresh air" for your brain. Changing your routine is a healthy thing to do, and it might help you to reinvigorate your studying pep. Check out our blog on alternative study corners for some more ideas.