By Alexa Emerson, Class of 2017
For students and professors alike, the end of the semester can be characterized by feelings of stress and pressure.
Deadlines, tests, assignments, and preparing for the holiday season–the end of the semester can be a time when stress levels are at an all-time high. There are many causes of this stress, according to graduate student Kristen Jennings, who teaches organizational psychology.
“One of these causes is simply feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work to do and the little time you have to do it,” she said.
Additionally, Jennings pointed to feelings like lack of control and fears regarding inability to meet goals.
“Stressors like these are related to negative effects on how we think, feel, and act, including taking a physical toll on the body through increased blood pressure and the release of stress hormones,” Jennings explained. “Stress can also be problematic mentally and emotionally. For example, cognitive strain is the term for stress interfering with out ability to process information and remain focused. This can be especially problematic in preparing for finals or finishing up work for the semester, when we’re highly stressed and can’t seem to focus enough to get our work done.”
Jennings said that organizational psychology theories help to explain these stressors and some even make recommendations to counter the stress. For example, many models of work stress emphasize the importance of having sufficient resources to counteract the demands that take a toll on our mental and physical health. During this time period, it may be critical to focus on replenishing necessary resources, whether that be getting enough rest, engaging in exercise to increase energy levels, or even short breaks throughout work or studying to regain focus. In addition, research has demonstrated benefits of seeking social support during stressful times, such as from friends, family, or other sources. Seeking the right form of support to address the stress you’re experiencing and asking for help when needed can help reduce the negative impacts of stress.
Jennings suggests that faculty, staff and students prepare themselves for the stress experienced during this time of year.
“It is important to be proactive in trying to develop strategies to manage stress at the end of the semester and be sure to seek out resources that can help to reduce the stress experienced.”
