Guest Post: Beating the Back to School Blues

I'm excited to present our first guest post, written by one of our staff, Laura D!

As the clock raced toward midnight, she leaned back in her chair and stared at the still blank word document in front of her. I’m never going to finish this paper, she thought. I have no idea what to write and I still have two exams to study for. How am I going to get all of this done on time? Her thoughts began to race; she closed her eyes and breathed deeply, trying to ease the anxious tightening in her chest.

Sound familiar? For some students, when it comes to school stress is as familiar a sensation as breathing. However, it doesn’t have to be that way; with the following suggestions, any would-be successful student can beat the back to school blues.

1. Juggling Time
 As students we live busy lives, trying to juggle assignments, activities and responsibilities while making sure our friends don’t get lost in the shuffle. That’s why an agenda book is a student’s best friend when it comes to staying organized and keeping track of what the future has planned. However, even a perfect schedule can’t help you if you don’t follow it. So, do NOT procrastinate; it may sound like a good idea at the time, but you will pay for it later.

2. Meet the Team
Getting involved in an activity in or outside of school is not just extra padding for college applications or resumes. It’s also a great way to meet new people, learn new skills and get involved in something you enjoy. After all, classes may be important, but no one can live on coursework alone.

3. Burn off the Stress
We’ve all been there. It’s the moment we’re sure that if we have to read one more line of Shakespeare or solve one more physics problem our brains are going to explode. The solution? Hit the gym or go for a run. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress, and studies have shown that regular exercise can help boost a person's mood. So put down the book and get away for a half hour; the work may look less horrifying after your break.

4. Down Time 
In the everyday rush of life, it is easy to forget that none of us are Superman and that we all need a break every now and then. So remember to set aside some time for a hobby or even just a moment for some reflection on your day. If all else fails and you really need to get away, pick up a book; there is nothing like getting lost in someone else’s life to take your mind off your own. 

Here is a list of books guaranteed to make you forget about even your worst day. All of these books can be found in the Lackawanna County Library System.

Hacking Harvard by Robin Wasserman

Wolves, Boys and Other Things that Might Kill Me by Kristen Chandler

Fallen by Lauren Kate

Jellico Road by Melina Marchetta 

Glass Houses by Rachel Caine

Laura D.
On Behalf of the ACL