With finals exam week approaching, students can help destress by coloring.

Leah McAlister, library associate and art resource specialist at Southeast Missouri State University, said coloring can help students relax by taking their minds off all the stress of assignments and exams.

“Several of the studies I have found coloring actually helps you relax,” McAlister said. “It provides kind of an escape. You're focused on one thing so you are not as focused on your worries, your troubles, you’ve got something structured. Other studies show it boosts creativity. So a brief break from your studies can boost your creativity, boost your focus and it takes you back to a simpler time.”

Kent Library staff members have tried other stress-relief methods for students in the past but have found coloring to be a favorite of the students, McAlister said.

Freshman Samantha Starnes said she finds coloring in the lines fun.

“It takes my mind off of assignments and everything,” Starnes said.

Kent Library will have coloring supplies and sheets available for student during exam week. McAlister said there is a mixture of adult and kid coloring sheets for students.