A 19-year-old Washington State University student is in critical condition after falling from a second story balcony at his fraternity early Sunday morning. Witnesses said alcohol was a factor, according to a staff report by The Daily Evergreen.
As finals near and the semester comes to a close, it can be tempting to blow off steam. University of Idaho and WSU students are injured in incidents every year, and alcohol is often a factor. It is crucial to relieve stress during this time of year, but it’s important to do so responsibly.
During the last few weeks of the semester, it feels like there aren’t enough hours in the day to finish every last assignment. But don’t let the stress of finals harm your health or well-being.
A recipe for a solid finish to the semester has three main ingredients: sleep, effective study habits and making time for yourself.
A sufficient amount of sleep is required. Students often spend these last two weeks sleep deprived and camped out in the library to make up for procrastination throughout the semester. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sleep studies suggest that rest is essential to life, much like food and water.
Insufficient sleep is linked to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, depression, obesity and diabetes, according to a CDC report.
The report suggests several sleep maintenance tips, including a consistent sleep schedule, moderate physical activity during the day, a comfortable sleep environment, avoiding large meals, caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime, as well as nicotine altogether.
Effective study habits are also an integral factor in students’ success.
A Dartmouth University study provides solutions to concentration problems. It suggests studying during daylight hours, giving yourself adequate rest periods, creating a work-only atmosphere and breaking up the content you study.
Lastly, it’s important to take time for yourself. Although it’s common to cram, the DU report concludes that in order to retain information, studying should be done in sessions.
To end the semester with success, students should stay healthy, make smart decisions and look out for one another.
So in between writing that essay and participating in a group review, hit the gym, watch a movie, hang out with friends or grab a drink — but know your limits and stay out of dangerous situations as you unwind.
— BK