You’ve invested a lot of time and energy into learning this semester, and now all that hard work is coming together. Final exams can be demanding and stressful. Consider these strategies to set yourself up for academic success by taking care of your health and well-being.
Unplug: Turn your devices and notifications off to reduce distractions while studying. When it’s time for a break, get some exercise before (or instead of) looking at social media. Exercise is an effective way to reduce stress and help clear your head for the next study session.
Get good sleep: Consistent, quality sleep supports memory, information processing and problem solving. Aim for seven to nine hours each night and try to get up at the same time each morning. Study hard, then sleep on it!
Avoid alcohol and other drugs: Avoiding or minimizing use will protect your sleep, cognitive performance and study time. Stimulant drugs (e.g., Adderall) that aren’t prescribed for you may seem like a solution for heavy cramming, but research shows that students who take prescription stimulants without a prescription see a drop in their GPA in the long run.
Plus, the risk of addiction and overdose is real. Fake or laced pills made to look like Adderall have been found to contain fentanyl, a deadly opioid responsible for over 150 fatal overdoses each day. Visit uwm.edu/narcan for more information.
Want to discuss your alcohol or other drug use in a confidential, non-judgmental setting? Email aodresources@uwm.edu to schedule a free 15-minute appointment.
