With midterms officially out of the way and the end of the semester finally coming within sight, students know that college life is soon to be hectic. When the realization hits that tests, presentations, research papers and the like are all due on the exact same date or the same week, a generous amount of stress, anxiety and panic may naturally follow.

That’s why The Prairie is here to tell you to remember to take some time for yourself these next few months and to remember to relax a little.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), increased stress caused by the attempt to balance a school, work, and social life while in college is one of the largest causes of mental health issues in college students.

In fact, also according to the APA, one in four college-age adults develop some form of mental illness while in college, and 75 percent of lifelong mental disorders take root when the afflicted is just 14 years old.

Conversely, taking days off to relax and engage in some recreational activity has been statistically shown to reduce the threat of mental breakdown and the threat of developing a mental illness.

Also, if you are feeling stressed and anxious about upcoming schoolwork, or just life in general, never hesitate to seek help. WT offers free sessions with professional counselors who can give you the help you deserve. They accept appointments and walk-ins, so why not utilize this service? It may make the difference in the long-run.

Now, it is important to remember to stay on top of your classwork, but don’t let it consume your life with stress and panic. In the end, classwork is important, but your mental health will affect your quality of life for years to come.