As you continue to try to push through the spring semester successfully, Elgin Community College students have contributed thoughts and tips to help you with a mental “Spring Cleaning.” It is very easy to get caught up in the heavy workload students take on that they can forget to take a step back and breathe.

Lupita Landeros, a second-year student at ECC, has a lot of experience with a heavy workload both in school and in her personal life.

“Honestly, every time I do work and I lack concentration, I remind myself what my goal is and that I need to get this done one way or another,” Landeros said. “I stay off my phone and listen to music that will help me concentrate and stay focused. I try to drink tea or coffee while I’m working to keep me energized.”

She also mentioned study tips to help stay organized and calm throughout the whole process.

“I try to make time by scheduling my most important things like homework first,” Landeros said. “If I have quizzes and tests, I set aside two hours to study for them and I make sure to take at least two ten minute breaks to drink or have something to eat. It’s important to listen to your body. Eat when you’re hungry and drink when you’re thirsty. I try to make sure I get enough rest and sleep at least six to eight hours every night.”

College students are typically constantly on the go, going from home to school, to after-school activities, to work, etc. It can be very difficult not to allow one’s mind to become cluttered with all of the things that are on their “to do” list for the week. It can also be challenging to do very simple things, like eating right, exercising, sleeping as long as one is supposed to, and making time for friends and family.

Second-year student, Danielle Saguiped also made a helpful suggestion.

“Take the time to write a list of things that you’re grateful for instead of focusing on the negativity of what you’re feeling,” Saguiped said. “Channel stress into physical activity. To make more time for family, set up a plan with your family at least once a week or every two weeks that you can all commit to.”

Taking the time to organize your thoughts, but also spending some time alone doing things you love can be a great way to clear your head after a stressful few months.

Jasmin Hernandez, who has been attending ECC for three years also offered her tips.

“A killer workout, cooking, unplugging from social media, and pampering myself once in a while are my tips to help keep your mind clear and avoid stress, ” Hernandez said.

Hernandez also mentioned that taking things slowly and carefully assessing situations is key to handling larger problems and more stressful situations. Talking things out and figuring out a solution helps avoid confusion and misunderstandings, which often lead to stress and a cluttered mind.