As finals approach and AP testing wraps up, it can be tempting to ignore mental health in favor of late-night study sessions and packed review schedules. While this may feel productive, pushing through exhaustion can lead to burnout—and may even hurt your performance. That’s why Amador’s counseling team is encouraging students to prioritize their wellness during this stressful time. They’ve shared some tips on how to take care of your mental health, even when finals are the only thing on your mind.
Taking a Break at the Wellness Center
One of the most accessible resources Amador offers is the Wellness Center, located in the library. Whether you need a moment to reset after a tough test or just want a quiet space to decompress, the center is designed to help students recharge.
“You would check in with your teacher first and ask for a pass to go to the wellness center. Then, we will let you know that you have 15 minutes, and you can decide how you want to use your time. You can sit there quietly, we do have some coloring books that some students use, we have drinks and snacks… they can focus on something else with the hopes that their anxiety will lower during that time,” said Amador’s head counselor Sheryl Pacheco.
The 15-minute limit is in place to ensure students don’t miss too much class. But if you’re still feeling overwhelmed after your break, the counseling team is ready to step in.
“If, after the 15 minutes, students feel well enough to go back to class, then they get their pass signed. If the anxiety still hasn’t lowered or they feel like they need someone to talk to, then they would come up to the counseling office, and the counselors would help support the students,” said Pacheco.
Study with Intention, Not Overload
Another important aspect of managing mental health is making sure to check in with yourself and incorporate wellness into your pre-finals study routine.
“I advise students to make sure they have a plan of when you’re studying, how long you’re studying, incorporating breaks, incorporating time to eat, time to rest, because I know it feels like you wanna cram a four hour session, but how productive is that gonna be to retaining the information? You may feel productive at the end of it, but then do you feel drained and burnt out? How is that also helping you for the next one?” advised Amador counseling team member Jasmine Torres.
Recognizing Burnout and Resetting
Counselor Zuhal Hashimi emphasized the importance of daily self-awareness and recognizing signs of burnout early.
“Hopefully, you would know what you feel like when you’re disregulated. You’re getting a sense like something’s wrong: I don’t feel good, I’m really stressed out, I’m not eating, I’m not sleeping, or I don’t feel like I have the same amount of energy or patience as I usually do. Those are all signs of burnout… definitely check in once a day with yourself, like, ‘where am I at?’ and just give yourself a little bit of something you might need. Whether it’s a 30 minute break to watch your favorite YouTube video, or to get a coffee, or to take a walk, or to get a hug, talk to a friend, listen to music… incorporating self care throughout your day, like even a little bit of it is actually really helpful in the long term,” said Hashimi.
Year-Round Mental Health Support
Amador offers more than just the Wellness Center. Each year, Mental Health Awareness Week takes place during AP testing and includes lunchtime and Access events focused on student wellness.
“We host different lunch events and Access workshops so students can unwind and reflect,” said Torres.
These Access activities, held in the Wellness Center, are open to all students.
“Our counseling intern led activities like wellness bags, affirmation stones, group meditation, and coping strategy workshops,” Torres added. “They’re listed under Ms. Yu on FlexiSched, and they’re available all year,” said Torres.
Stay Connected
To stay updated on upcoming events and resources, students can follow the counseling team on Instagram at @avhs_counselors or check school emails for announcements.
With finals around the corner, Amador Valley reminds students: your well-being matters just as much as your GPA. Whether it’s taking a 15-minute break, signing up for a mindfulness workshop, or simply asking for help, support is available—and only a short walk away.
