Navigating Stress During the Holidays: A Guide for College Students

The holiday season is supposed to be a joyful time, but for many college students, it can be one of the most stressful parts of the year. As the semester ends, students face final exams, money worries, and busy schedules. 

Twenty-one-year-old Catarina Caruso, graduating from Florida Gulf Coast College this month, finds the “most wonderful time of the year” exciting and overwhelming.

“Graduating is a dream come true,” she says, “but balancing finals, extracurriculars, and finances has been tough. I’ve had to remind myself to take things one step at a time and focus on my well-being.”

Catarina, an intern for the Marketing & Brand Management department at Lee Health, shares her experience and how she manages the challenges nearly every college students faces, whether they’re seniors or freshman or any year in-between. 

The Stress of Finals

Finals week is known for late nights, endless coffee, and high stress. For students, it’s not just about studying; it’s about juggling many responsibilities at once. Deadlines, group projects, and high expectations can make this time feel especially tough.

“Finals aren’t just about getting good grades,” Catarina notes. “You’re also trying to meet deadlines and manage everything else you’ve been working on all semester. It’s like everything happens all at once.”

For students like Catarina, who are involved in extracurricular activities like volunteering and leadership roles, it can feel like there’s no time to slow down or take a breather.

The Financial Burden of College During the Holidays

Many college students struggle financially, especially around the holidays with extra costs for gifts and travel. College is pricey for students who have to pay for their own tuition, textbooks, and accommodations. 

“Money is always on my mind,” Catarina admits. “Even while I’m studying for finals, I’m thinking about how to pay my bills and how I’m going to pay for my graduate studies.” 

Catarina, who will earn a bachelor’s degree in 2024, plans to enroll in Florida Southwestern State College’s nursing program in 2025.

Balancing Mental Health and Holiday Expectations

While family gatherings and celebrations are fun, they can add even more stress during a time when students may feel anxious about their futures or compare themselves to others.

Catarina says she feels a mix of emotions as graduation approaches. “People keep asking me, ‘What’s next?’ And while I have plans, it’s still a lot to think about. I’m learning to give myself grace during this time.”

She explains that “to give myself grace” means taking care of herself, to avoid getting lost in the whirl of holiday activities, school demands, and family stress. 

“For me, it means acknowledging that it's okay not to be perfect, to take breaks when I need them, and to prioritize my well-being by not feeling obligated to do everything or be ‘merry and bright’ all the time,” she says. “Essentially, it means making space in my life to relax and enjoy the season without unnecessary pressure.”

As Catarina and her fellow grads get ready to toss their mortar boards up in the air and underclassmen sigh with relief as finals week ends, she shares her tips for giving yourself grace. 

1. Prioritize yourself: Get enough sleep, drink water, and take breaks from studying. Small steps like these can help lower stress.
2. Accept your feelings: It's normal to feel stressed or overwhelmed sometimes, so don't beat yourself up if you're not always in the holiday spirit.
3. Ask for help: Talk to friends, professors, or mentors if you feel overwhelmed.
4. Be financially smart: Make a holiday budget and stick to it. Simple gifts, like something homemade, can be as meaningful as expensive presents.
5. Practice mindfulness: Pay attention to your needs and be present in the moment to avoid getting caught up in the hustle.
6. Use local resources: Southwest Florida has programs that can help with mental health and finances. Lee Health Behavioral Health and other local organizations are great places to start.

Celebrate Your Progress

As Catarina prepares to graduate, she reflects on her journey. “It’s been hard sometimes, but I’ve grown so much. I’ve learned to appreciate both the good moments and the challenges.”

Her story is a great reminder that while finals, money worries, and holiday stress can feel overwhelming, it’s important to focus on how far you’ve come. 

For students in Southwest Florida, leaning on your community and caring for yourself can make all the difference. So, whether you are finishing your last semester or just starting college, remember to pause, breathe, and celebrate your progress. The holidays aren’t just about grades or gifts: They are about connection, gratitude, and hope for what’s next.