We are about halfway into the spring season. This is also a time when we are preparing for finals, finishing up class projects, and getting ready for the end of the semester. Because this is often a busy and stressful time, checking in with how we are taking care of ourselves is crucial.

Here are a few self-care ideas during this busy time of year:

1. Take time to relax and to rest.
   The weeks leading up to the end of the semester can be stressful. Try to carve out some time each day to focus on yourself and your hobbies or interests, which can help you avoid burnout. In addition to this, try to get enough sleep. Although it might seem like a good idea to stay up all night to study before an exam, your body and your mind need enough rest to keep you energized and to help you retain the information that you have been studying.
   
   
2. Take a break to enjoy the weather!
   If possible, try to enjoy the weather when it is warm and sunny out. Spring weather can be unpredictable, but when the weather is nice, going for a walk or sitting outside can help boost your energy and your mood. Since much of our studying and coursework involves sitting in front of a computer, taking breaks outside could be a good way to break up screen time.
   
   
3. Reach out to friends and/or family members.
   Try to make time to reach out to friends and/or family members. If you cannot spend time with them in person, a phone call or text message exchange can be a good way to connect. Connecting with other students, whether they are in your classes or in student organizations that you are a part of, can also be beneficial since your peers might be able to relate to the way you’re feeling about finals, the end of the semester, and school-related events.
   
   
4. Utilize the various UIC resources.
   UIC has many resources available for students. If you need assistance with classes or with studying, a helpful resource might be the Student Success Program. The Student Success Program website gives you the option to request tutoring sessions, sign up for open skills lab, and learn about other useful resources. Another resource that is available to students is the Counseling Center. If you visit the Counseling Center website, you can read through frequently asked questions, make appointments, and explore the different services provided by the Counseling Center staff. UIC also has a Wellness Center that hosts various events related to health and wellbeing. The Wellness Center offers wellness coaching, a Pop-Up Pantry, and many other resources for students.
   
   Link to the Student Success Program: https://nursing.uic.edu/about/college-insider/student-resources/student-success-program/
   Link to the Counseling Center: https://counseling.uic.edu/
   Link to the Wellness Center: https://wellnesscenter.uic.edu/resources-and-services/
   
   
5. Reflect on your accomplishments throughout this semester.
   You have accomplished so much this semester! Reflect on the new experiences that you had, the ways in which you have grown, and how you overcame various challenges. Try to bring the practices and study techniques that worked for you into your next semester. If you are graduating in May, think about how you can apply your strengths and the skills that you have gained to what you will be accomplishing next.

Good luck on finals! You can do this!