Feeling stressed—especially around midterms—is completely normal, and sometimes it can even motivate you to do your best. However, if stress starts to feel overwhelming, it’s important to take care of yourself and find positive ways to manage it.  

Remember, you’re not alone in this, and there are supportive strategies you can use to regain your balance and feel more in control. Here are some helpful tips for navigating stressful times, whether it’s midterm season or just a busy week. 

1. Check in with yourself 

When life feels overwhelming, it can be easy to lose focus or feel stuck. One way to gently guide yourself forward is by pausing for a quick personal check-in. Try picking up a notebook or any scrap of paper and doing a “brain dump.” Write down everything that’s on your mind, from classes, upcoming exams and projects to job responsibilities, relationships or uncertainties you may be facing. 

Seeing your thoughts and stressors laid out on paper can help you understand what’s weighing on you the most. Remember, it’s perfectly okay to step back, take a few deep breaths and return to your list when you’re ready. Be kind and honest with yourself about how your list makes you feel—whether that’s anxious, tired, excited or even hopeful. Acknowledging your feelings is the first step in caring for yourself and finding a positive way forward. 

2. Break it down 

Once you’ve made your list and taken a moment to notice how it makes you feel, try kindly asking yourself why you feel that way. 

For example, if you notice that a particular assignment is causing you the most stress, pause and consider what’s contributing to those feelings. Is it the amount of work, a tight deadline or feeling unsure about what’s expected? Recognizing these reasons can help you break big tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Focus on what you can accomplish in just 5–15 minutes—maybe that’s reaching out to your professor with a quick question, gathering your sources or starting your PowerPoint with an opening slide. 

Keep in mind that making progress—even in small ways—can make a meaningful difference.  

3. Organize your time 

When assignments, projects or exams start piling up, try listing out all your upcoming deadlines so you can see everything more clearly. Then, map out your time by working backward from each due date. This can help you prioritize tasks based on what’s due soonest and how much time you’ll need for each one. 

Set aside specific times for each task and do your best to stick to the plan you create. It can also help to build in buffer time if you can, in case assignments take longer than you thought. Laying things out in advance won’t magically give you extra hours, but it will make your schedule feel more manageable and help you use your time more wisely. Consider using a planner or calendar to keep everything organized and track your progress.  

Making self-care a regular habit goes a long way. Try to drink water throughout the day, set aside time for nourishing meals and snacks, aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night and allow yourself to recharge with a quick power nap if needed. If you find it helpful, set gentle reminders or alarms on your phone to check in with yourself. By caring for your well-being, you’re giving yourself the best chance to succeed—and you deserve it! 

5. Talk it out 

Remember, you don't have to face stressful moments alone—sometimes the best way to find clarity is to talk things through with someone you trust. Whether it’s a peer wellness coach, your academic advisor, a roommate, a friend or a counselor, inviting another perspective can help you see challenges in a new light and remind you that support is available. Sharing what’s on your mind can ease the weight you’re carrying, spark new solutions and help you feel more connected. 

Even a quick conversation or study session can make a difference, especially if you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed. Don’t hesitate to reach out—sometimes, all it takes is another pair of eyes and a caring ear to help you move forward with more confidence and less stress. 

  Find support 

Remember, you can also reach out to campus resources for additional help and guidance during stressful times. 

Tutoring resources: CU Boulder offers a wide variety of tutoring and learning resources to support you and your academic success. Some are specific to certain classes, departments or groups of students. Most are free while some require a fee. 

Peer Wellness Coaching: If you are struggling with navigating campus life or need support, Peer Wellness Coaching is a great free peer-to-peer option. Peer wellness coaches know what it's like to deal with midterms (they're students too!) and can share tips, ideas and campus resources. 

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): CAPS offers several mental health and support services for students, including therapy groups, workshops and drop-ins through Let’s Talk.