How to Beat Exam Stress
Stress is a natural feeling, designed to help us cope in difficult situations. In small amounts, it's good for you because it pushes you to work hard and do your best. The problems however start when you have too much stress.
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Signs of too much stress at exam time may include : - headaches,
- sleeping badly,
- loss of appetite,
- being unusually bad tempered,
- feeling tired all the time,
- feeling sick,
- feeling restless,
- finding it difficult to relax or concentrate,
- experiencing feelings of panic.
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Make sure you're well prepared.
Good planning is the key to success. Get your revision timetable drawn up and try to stick to it. Speak to your teachers to find out if there are past exam papers you can look at, to familiarise yourself with the layout and type of questions you'll be asked. Practise completing the exam paper in the set time limit so you're more confident on the day. |
Talk to someone about your worries.
Find someone to talk to that you can trust such as a family member, teacher or friend if you're feeling very stressed and worried. Don't be embarrassed to ask for advice or support. You may want to make an appointment with your Doctor or School/College Nurse or counselling service, especially if you're finding it difficult to eat or sleep properly. |
Make time in your day to relax or chill out - whether it's half an hour reading a book, or a long bath in the evening.
You're more likely to do your best if you relax, and you learn better if you take regular breaks. A positive attitude helps as well. If you know you've done your best, that's all that matters - exams are not the be all and end all. |
Sleep and food are essential.
Your body needs them for energy so don't skip meals and snack on junk food or stay up all night revising. It won't do you any good in the long run because by the time the exam comes, you won't have any energy and your concentration levels will be low. Get some physical exercise or fresh air every day - this will help keep your mood positive and help you sleep. |
For more information about beating stress during your exams you may wish to visit :
www.bbc.co.uk
www.childline.org.uk
www.mind.org.uk
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