Fortunately, McLean has a yearly tradition called Stress Less that aims to promote exactly what its name implies: relaxation and decompressing. Occurring the week prior to the start of AP testing, the tradition features enjoyable events that give students a break from fretting over study plans.
“You can’t let your tests or exams consume you,” College & Career specialist Mary Barnes said. “It’s been scientifically proven that you actually perform better when you take time to relax before stressful [occasions].”
Stress Less Week provides such activities as therapy dog visits, snow cone stands and cotton candy booths. While these events provide relief during the school day, Barnes urges students to prioritize their well-being on their own time too.
“You’ve got to make sure that you’re getting out of your head sometimes,” Barnes said. “Ride your bike or go for a walk–do whatever makes you happy, just make sure you’re doing something to unwind.”
Many students are appreciative of McLean’s efforts to acknowledge and reduce academic stress, especially seniors who have the additional pressure of needing to prepare for postsecondary life next year.
“My stress levels are very [high] right now because of testing and graduation,” senior Hafsa Zaki said. “I think it’s nice how McLean tries to make the environment more fun during stressful times like AP exams.”
