Surviving (and Thriving) During Midterms: How to Balance Mental Health & Academics

Beyond coursework, students face a range of additional pressures—financial concerns, job responsibilities, family obligations, or adjusting to life in a new country. For international students, the experience can come with unique challenges, including language barriers, cultural differences, and being far from home.
The good news? Small, daily habits can help you regain balance and stay in control. These strategies from LaSalle College Montréal’s Psychosocial Services Team are designed to help you manage stress, maintain focus, and take care of your mental health—especially during high-pressure times like mid-terms.
1. Establish a Routine to Stay Balanced
A steady routine provides structure, reduces stress, and helps maintain focus—especially during busy academic periods.
💡 How to create a routine that works for you:
External pressures can also disrupt your routine:
🔑 The key? Finding a daily rhythm that supports your academic workload and personal well-being.
2. Use Campus Mental Health Resources
You don’t have to go through mid-terms alone. Reaching out early can make a big difference.
At LCI Education institutions, learners have access to:
🌎 No matter where you study:
📍 Check what mental health services your school offers—many have online counseling, peer support groups, or academic coaching.
📍 Ask for help before you’re in crisis. You don’t have to be struggling to seek support, and you never have to wait to reach out. The best time to ask for help is the first time you think about it. Any other time is also the best time. 😊
3. Practice Mindfulness & Stress-Reduction Techniques
Stress is a normal part of college life. Managing it well can prevent burnout and improve concentration.
💡 Try these simple techniques:
🔑 The goal isn’t to eliminate stress completely—it’s to manage it in a way that helps you stay focused and feel more in control.
4. Understanding Additional Pressures Students Face
Mid-terms aren’t the only source of stress for students. Many learners balance academic responsibilities with personal, financial, and social pressures.
Common stressors learners face:
How to manage external pressures:
🔑 Recognizing your unique challenges is the first step to finding solutions that work for you.
5. Build a Support Network & Stay Connected
Having a strong support system makes managing stress easier. Staying engaged—whether online or in person—can help you navigate academic pressure.
💡 Ways to strengthen your support system:
📍 Even if you’re studying in a different region or remotely:
🔑 Your support system—big or small—can make a huge difference in how you handle stress.
Small Steps, Big Impact
Mid-term stress is real, but you have the tools to manage it.
💙 Remember: Your well-being matters. Take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.