By Leigh Bachman

At the Libraries, we see students working hard every day to #GetThoseGrades.

Finals can be an especially stressful time of the semester, so it is important to remember to take care of yourself.

We have hand-picked a few online tools and services that can help you manage stress.

Find library resources to reduce stress and #GetThoseGrades

• Stress Busters and Study 24/7: Coffee, pet therapy, and other relaxing treats will welcome you at the Libraries to power you through finals. Check the Stress Busters schedule and see which locations offer 24/7 study access.
• Libraries’ Makerspaces:  Visit the Makerspace (in Bio-Medical Library) & Breakerspace (in Walter Library) and take your mind off exams with activities like Virtual Reality, crafts, 3D Printing, and vinyl stickers.
• SMART Learning Commons: Visit one of our SMART Learning Commons (in Walter Library, Wilson Library, and Magrath Library) to get help from a Peer Research Consultant, receive media services, or meet with a peer tutor.
• Connect with your Librarian: Find the subject expert for your field of study.

Use campus resources to combat stress

• Pet Away Worry and Stress (PAWS): Studies have shown that animal interactions can reduce anxiety, lower your blood pressure, and boost your mood, so be sure to visit with therapy dogs, bunnies, chickens, and more! It’s good for you.
• Stress Check-ins: Boynton Health offers free and confidential appointments to talk through your stress and find management strategies.
• Taking Charge of Your Well-Being: This website, created by the Center for Spirituality & Healing, contains quizzes, guides, tips, and resources for all aspects of well-being. Yoga and tai chi: Free classes with a focus on stress management are offered at Boynton Health during fall and spring semesters.
• Learn to Live: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy informs these four online programs designed to help you manage Social Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia or Stress, Anxiety and Worry. Enter code “UMN” for access.

Identify and reduce stress-related conditions with guides from MedlinePlus

• Stress: Find tips for identifying and managing different kinds of stress.
• Anxiety: Anxiety can sometimes be useful – but not always.  Learn how strategies – such as exercise – can reduce anxiety.
• Panic Disorder: Panic disorders can cause numbness, chest pain, and dizziness. If you experience sudden feelings of terror, connect with your health provider to make a plan.

Choose a relaxation app for calming techniques on the go

• Calm: Guided meditation and mindfulness sessions
• Mood Coach: (iOS-only): Track your moods and post your positivity
• Down Dog: Practice yoga anywhere, anytime
• A Soft Murmur: Create a custom mix of ambient noise

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Disclaimer

Never disregard your health care providers’ advice or treatment because of something found online. Information provided here is not intended to be used as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content is for general information purposes only. You should review all information from these and other sources with your healthcare provider. Boynton Health clinics are open to U of M faculty, staff, and students.