All of us here at globalbridge have gone through exam seasons as a student, and for many of us, as school teachers supporting our students through them. This can be for some, a very stressful time, and affects you all in very different ways.
“Like a weight placed on top of you. While you want to succeed, I find it really difficult because of the pressure.”
“Where I'm constantly feeling overwhelmed by the idea of studying or doing the exams and it causes me to lose focus. This lack of focus leads to me feeling like I'm going to fail and adds to the stress – like a snowball effect.”
“Knowing you have so much to do in so little time. Imagining how you know you're going to fail and feeling so stupid because you simply can't remember anything.”
- Young people, (mind.org.uk)
It is normal to feel a bit worried about exams, especially if you're under pressure from school or family. Exam stress can cause you to feel anxious or depressed, and this might affect your sleeping or eating habits. One thing I can guarantee you is that you are not alone! If you are feeling or start to feel anxious or depressed here are a few things you can do:
Always share how you are feeling with family and friends, they can offer you support, an opportunity for you to offload, and encouragement.
Always ask for help. Speak to your teachers and don’t be embarrassed about seeking that extra support, you will not be the first, and certainly won't be the last!
Try and set up a study group, even if just for an hour or so. This will give you peer on peer support and again will probably show that you are not the only one feeling the way you are. Your peers can also give you strategies that they use to help them, which may help you.
Never underestimate the importance of taking care of yourself! This includes thinking about all the wonderful things you have already achieved. Also don’t be afraid to let your family and friends know that their expectations may be different to the ones you have of yourself, and that this is OK! When you are putting together a timetable for revision, you must 100% factor in time to look after yourself by doing things like eating regularly, doing something you enjoy like gaming or seeing your friends. We are not machines – we all need a break sometimes!
Keep things in perspective!
There is more to you than just a list of grades! Remember your life outside of exams is important too. Make a list of all the things you enjoy and find time to do them. This can reduce your stress levels, improve your mood, and help you feel refreshed and relaxed. You’re allowed to have a social life and interests outside of studying. Make a list of your characteristics that you bring to your family and friends’ lives; everyone loves the comedian of the group! Consider your future destination ideas and do a little research on the different routes you can take. Find some case studies on people who have achieved great things but didn’t necessarily do amazingly in exams! (Here is a website you may enjoy having a look at!)
"Never forget that your health and happiness is worth looking after."