Stress Free Zone
With the weight of finals looming, it's hard to focus on studying when you're also grappling with the pressure of world events, political tensions, and personal challenges that seem to pile on every day. Come take a break during our Stress Free Zone events! The University community has come together to offer you multiple ways to relax and recharge before the semester ends. Join us for art activities, games, food and a spa day!
To request disability accommodations, please contact Student Disability Services at (773) 442-4595 or sds@neiu.edu at least 48 hours in advance.
May 4, 2026
Creative Escape
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. | SCS Corridor B 119
Student Counseling Services
Need a distraction and a creative outlet for all your stress? Join Student Counseling Services to participate in a variety of crafts including diamond art, canvas painting, and making t-shirt decals and bracelets. You can use these creative outlets not only to lower stress but also to lower anxiety. All materials will be provided, just bring yourself and let your creativity take the lead.
Stress Balls, Paint & Chip
3:30 - 7:00 p.m. | The NEST
Student Counseling Services
Take a break and boost your mood with some stress-free activities! Join Student Counseling Services at The NEST to create stress balls, paint and enjoy eating some chips.
Star Wars Paint and Sip
3:30 - 5:00 p.m. | El Centro
Come to El Centro to enjoy a Star Wars themed paint and sip to celebrate May 4th!
May 5, 2026
Breakfast for Lunch, Yoga & Puppies!
Noon - 2:00 p.m. | Cafeteria Fish Bowl SU 003
Student Health Services
Take a break, nourish your body, and participate in some de-stressing activities! Stop by to enjoy some pancakes, yogurt, donuts and more for our Breakfast for Lunch. Recharge your mind and body with some fun activities for students: de-stressing yoga, decorating ceremonial tea cup, enjoy puppy therapy and connect with friends while engaging in self-care.
May 6, 2026
Relax & Unwind with Puppies & Stress-Free Activities
Noon - 2:00 p.m. | Cafeteria Fish Bowl SU 003
Student Health Services
Relax, recharge, and share a meal with Student Health Services! Stop by to treat yourself to a massage and delicious mix of flavors with Hispanic cuisine from Uncle Julio's, virgin margaritas, conchas, falafels and more. De-stress with some fun activities for students: decorating ceremonial tea cup, enjoy puppy therapy, and connect with friends while engaging in self-care.
Rec Recess
3:30 - 5:00 p.m. | The Quad
Campus Recreation
Take a well-deserved break with Campus Recreation. We will be at the student quad with a rotating lineup of tailgate and backyard games for everyone to enjoy!
Body Double
3:00 - 4:00 p.m. | virtual
Student Counseling Services
Body doubling is a helpful strategy that students can use to aid in productivity where another person(s) are present while you work on tasks. Join Student Counseling Services in a virtual space to body double during your finals preparations!
CCICS Relax & Recharge
Noon - 3:00 p.m.
CCICS Lobby
Enjoy relaxing music, games, arts & crafts, a massage chair, hot tea, and snacks, all in a peaceful, welcoming space created just for you. Come de-stress, recharge, and take a moment for yourself!
May 7, 2026
Pamper Party
2:00 - 3:00 p.m. | SCS Corridor B 119
Student Counseling Services
Join Student Counseling Services for a pamper party to participate in a variety of selfcare activities including spa therapy, foot massages, and massage chairs & massage chair pads. Snacks and drinks will also be provided to all participants.
Dog Therapy: Canine Cuddles with George
3:00 - 4:00 p.m. | SCS Corridor B 119
Student Counseling Services
Need some puppy cuddles? Come hang out with George for some puppy cuddles and de-stress with puppy love.
CCICS Relax & Recharge
3:00 - 7:00 p.m.
CCICS Lobby
Enjoy relaxing music, games, arts & crafts, a massage chair, hot tea, and snacks, all in a peaceful, welcoming space created just for you. Come de-stress, recharge, and take a moment for yourself!