Stress Less Week, a tradition at the end of every semester, was hosted by Peer Assistant Listeners (PALs) last week. The week is meant to help students destress the week before finals. 

PALs Event Coordinator and Wellness Committee Chairman, Lindsay Lardon (12), helps run the week-long event.

“We want to help students reduce their stress and feel supported leading into finals while practicing healthy coping skills,” Lardon said. “As finals are coming up, a lot of students are experiencing stress, so this week just encourages them to slow down and prioritize their own mental health first.”

Stress Less Week features daily events designed to establish and reinforce key ideas that lead to a healthy mindset.

“We started the week with granola bars being passed out at lunch,” Lardon said. “We were trying to remind everyone that food is fuel for our bodies, and it’s important to eat. Tuesday, we had affirmations to help boost self-esteem and focus, followed by hot cocoa, and a movie in the PALs room during lunch on Wednesday, focusing on connectedness between peers. Thursday, we brought in therapy dogs, and passed out stress toys. Friday, [we did] gingerbread cookie decorating.”

The month-long planning process is headlined by the six-person Wellness Committee, but teamwork was essential to a successful execution.

“It’s definitely not all put on [the Wellness Committee] at all,” Lardon said. “Our whole committee and class work together to come up with ideas.” 

Stress Less Week is a staple that PALs claim helps reinforce the importance of community and mindfulness during stressful times.

“Students know sometimes [the week before finals] is more stressful than actual finals week,” Angela Willden, Honors Chemistry and Advanced Placement Chemistry teacher and PALs advisor, said. “Just [taking the time] to remind ourselves that our brain operates best when our body is at peak performance can really help clear the mind and help focus.”

Self-care is crucial, and can start with just a small change in routine.

“The number one thing you can do to perform at your best is to get sleep, eat well, take breaks and get sunshine,” Willden said.