It seems pertinent at this time of the academic year, to spare a thought for the thousands of students struggling with the demands of exams.
Here is a short guide on dealing with stress and how to overcome its symptoms.....
What is stress?
When we worry, a hormone called cortisol is released from the hypothalamus through the adrenal glands into the bloodstream. This causes an increase in heart rate because oxygen fills your muscles leading to tension. It makes us feel sweaty, uncomfortable, and at times, overwhelmed.
How is stress triggered?
Stress can be triggered for many different reasons. Here are some of the main causes of exam stress:
Overworking
Worrying about what other people think
Worrying about your exam grade
Not having a balanced healthy diet
Not having a change of scenery
Catastrophising
What are some of the best ways to deal with stress?Take deep breaths; filling up your bloodstream with oxygen can reduce your heart rate and make you feel calm and in control.
Have some outside time – you could walk your dog, go for a bike ride and do other outdoor activities.
Take a break from revising – have a snack, a quick walk, and play with a pet.
Go to bed early – you need roughly 8 to 9 hours of sleep every night so your body can repair itself.
Eat a balanced and healthy diet.
Be organised – pack your bag the night before school to ensure you have everything ready for the next day.
Talk to someone – this could be anyone ranging from your parents to your friends or maybe even your form tutor or teacher; they will be able to support you.
Go out with friends – this could be going to the park, going out to the cinema, going out for food, or hanging out generally.
Keep it in perspective!
I know everyone will be struggling with exams, but remember, exams are simply a moment in time. They will come and they will go. We are young, and there will be more opportunities to try again if things don’t go according to plan. It truly isn’t the end of the world.
Do your best and work hard, but never at the expense of your health and well-being.
Click here for further guidance on how to deal with stress.