As the year gets closer to the end, many people find themselves feeling overwhelmed by the end-of-year responsibilities and school work. From final exams and project deadlines, the pressure can quickly become intense.

However, experts say there are healthy ways to manage this end-of-year stress and avoid burnout. Here are some tips:

Prioritize self-care. It’s easy to let personal needs feel less important when the to-do list is a mile long. But making time for basic self-care like getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and engaging in stress-relieving activities can actually boost your productivity and focus.

“Taking care of yourself should be a top priority, not an afterthought,” said Dr. Sarah Johnson, a clinical psychologist. “When you’re well-rested and nourished, both mentally and physically, you’ll be better equipped to tackle your responsibilities.”

Manage your time wisely. End-of-year deadlines have a way of easily piling up quickly. One missing assignment can turn into 10 in a matter of days. You can fight this by creating a schedule and to-do list, and be realistic about what you can accomplish in a given timeframe.

“Break down big projects into smaller, more manageable tasks,” advised time management coach Alex Rodriguez. “This will help you feel less overwhelmed and give you a sense of progress as you check items off your list.”

Lean on your support system. Trying to handle everything alone can quickly become draining. Reach out to friends, family members, or anyone who can help you or listens to you.

“Having people you can vent to or delegate tasks to can make a big difference,” said Johnson. “You don’t have to go through this alone.”

Above all, it’s important to not go hard on yourself. While the end of the year may feel high-stakes, it’s crucial to remember that this period of intensity is temporary.

“Keep the big picture in mind,” said Rodriguez. “This too shall pass, and you have the skills and resources to get through it. Be kind to yourself in the process.”