Exam Stress

It’s a nightmare – the exams and their results. Preparing, giving exams, listening to everyone – friends, family, teachers & so-called well-wishers.

Are you able to cope with it? Are you able to talk about it freely? Do you have someone to talk to about it?

It’s ok to feel under stress before, during or after exams.  It’s ok to feel the stress mentally or physically in the form of feeling anxious, having fever, loose motions, sweating, butterflies in your stomach, stammering, etc.

What is not ok is to lose hope & think of yourself as a failure. To tell yourself that you are not capable – doing negative self-talk is the next, biggest bad thing.

Understand your mind & body, both are interlinked. For maintaining your sanity during exams, it’s very important to work on both your mind & body. Their fitness overlaps & affects each other heavily.

Several studies have shown that those students who are taking good nutrition, doing yoga or some form of exercise, keep more composed during exams – manage stress effectively. Nevertheless, this doesn’t undermine the importance of preparation and regular studies. Plan well, plan ahead. Be regular in your studies & revise often but give yourself some “ME” time too.

ME time is therapeutic. You can choose to read out of the course books, listen to music, do gardening, socializing helps, and so as many other things, apart from studies. It keeps your mind fresh & energetic. Afterall, “all work & no play, makes Jack a dull boy”.

Most importantly, have someone to talk to. All exam related fears & confusions need to vent out. Keeping them inside yourself only, is maddening & unhealthy. Sometimes looking at our problems and fears with the help of a non-judgemental person opens up the path to a repository of solutions. Be bold – talk about your fears.