As finals season approaches, it is the most rewarding, but also arguably the most stressful part of the semester. 
Below is a comprehensive yet effective list to readying yourself for your exams as well as tips and techniques for studying for them. 

Good luck!

1. Create a study schedule: Plan out your study sessions in advance and allocate time for each subject or topic that needs to be covered. List your study activities according to priorities, and tackle the most difficult task first.
2. Use active studying techniques: Avoid passive reading and engage in active studying techniques such as summarizing, creating flashcards, and teaching the material to someone else.
3. Break down the material: Divide the material into smaller, manageable chunks to make it easier to grasp and retain.
4. Distributed Practice: Rather than cram, distribute time spent learning over spans of time. Longer intervals are typically more effective.
5. Utilize the Pomodoro Technique: Use the Pomodoro Technique, which involves studying for a focused period of time (e.g., 25 minutes) followed by a short break (e.g., 5 minutes), to maintain focus and productivity.
6. Minimize distractions: Find a quiet and conducive environment for studying, and minimize distractions such as turning off notifications on your phone or computer.
7. Review past exams and assignments: Review past exams, assignments, and class notes to identify patterns and focus on areas that need improvement.
8. Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and mental well-being by getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and managing stress through techniques such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing.
9. Listen to your body. Study when your brain is most alert. Your body works on a clock, maximize that to its fullest potential.
10. Collaborate with classmates: Form study groups with classmates to review and discuss the material, quiz each other, and gain different perspectives on the topics.
11. Test yourself: Practice with sample exams or create your own practice quizzes to test your knowledge and identify areas that require further review.
12. Stay organized: Keep your study materials, notes, and resources organized to easily locate and review them when needed.

Remember, effective studying involves active engagement with the material, managing your time wisely, and taking care of your well-being. 
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Here is a Youtube video on the Pomodoro Technique here

Under the Essential Resources list on the main page, you can find the number of the UofSC counseling and psychiatry office, and where they are a great resource for seeking help, they are not for everyone. This article is going to give a list of search tools and counseling apps that will aid in your search of finding a therapist or psychiatrist that works for you!

If you are a brother or pledge reading this and need any help, please feel free to reach out to your current Chaplain and they would be happy to assist you using these tools. 

Tips for enhancing mental health: https://www.mhanational.org/31-tips-boost-your-mental-health

Mental Health Provider Search Tools

       Therapist search tool in Columbia 
               https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/sc/columbia 

        Teletherapy search tool in Columbia 
               https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling/sc/columbia

        Psychiatrist search tool in Columbia 
               https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/psychiatrists/sc/columbia

Online Therapy Services

BetterHelp

• Has an app and online service 
• Therapy search to fit your needs 
• Allow you to message and keep in touch with your therapist outside just live meeting sessions
• Cost $40/month, but they do have options for financial aid (not covered by insurance)

Other Mental Health Resources

American Psychiatric Association
1-888-35-PSYCH (357-7924) (toll-free)
The American Psychiatric Association is a professional organization of medical doctors who treat mental illness. This site contains information about mental illness and allows you to search for a psychiatrist near you.

The National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists (NACBT)
1-800-853-1135 (toll-free)
E-mail: [email protected]
Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you identify negative thought patterns and change them while also identifying and supporting positive thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors. At NACBT, you can learn more about cognitive-behavioral therapy and get contact information for licensed therapists in your area who offer this kind of therapy.

Authentic Happiness
E-mail: [email protected]
This site has information about positive psychology, which is founded on evidence-based principles that support positive emotions and psychological states. You can take tests and quizzes to assess your happiness.

Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
1-800-826-3632 (toll-free)
A national organization dedicated to providing support and education to people with depression, mood disorders, or bipolar disorder and their families. The national Web site can help you find or start local support groups.

Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation
1-617-973-5801
A national non-profit organization dedicated to providing education about obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and support to those who have OCD.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Association (SAMHSA)
1-800-789-2647 (toll-free)
This federal agency provides information and support for people seeking treatment for mental health and substance abuse. SAMHSA can help you find counseling or treatment centers near you.