The end of the semester can be a stressful time for students, so to help take the edge off looming projects, papers and exams, the Pat Walker Health Center and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) will host their annual Play Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, ‪May 4, in the Arkansas Union Connections Lounge and the North Terrace.  

This day is designed help students take a moment, relax and have fun in the days leading up to finals. "This is easily one of our favorite events of the year because we get to help students learn how to practice relaxing" said Elizabeth Stout, Ph.D, mental health clinician and outreach coordinator for CAPS. "We encourage students to come by and take a moment to have fun and learn about how they can better manager their stress during finals time."

Play Day will include many different activities for students to help relieve stress such as henna tattoos, yoga demonstrations, coloring, building with Legos, popping bubble wrap, and of course play dates with dogs from Fayetteville Animal Services. The event will also feature chair massages!

When it comes to preparing for finals, stress management and self-care is crucial for students. CAPS will have on-site clinicians to help discuss tips with students and promote wellness. "We will also have a few new surprises to help promote self-care, stress management and wellness as final exams approach," said Stout. "Managing stress can be difficult, but finding fun, engaging activities and tools to de-stress shouldn't be."