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How To Beat Exam Stress?

The very term ‘exams’ causes panic and palpitations! Students dread this time of the year when they must learn by rote reams and reams of information, formulas, names and so much more. And if that isn’t enough, they must live up to all the expectations their parents and family have set for them. Sigh, the dream of getting into a good university does have a hefty price – exam stress!

All these expectations and the constant worry to prove one’s self is taxing and eventually results in stress.

Some Realistic Tips to Beat Exam Stress:

#1 Exams are real

No matter how much you may pray to the rain gods or hope for a rare epidemic, the exams will not be cancelled! Accept the fact that you must work hard and catch up on the study material and prepare well. As soon as you do this, your brain will automatically relax and let you process all the information it needs to retain.

#2 Decide your study timetable

Each one of us is unique. Some may prefer to wake up early and study while some are nocturnal animals, staying up all night. Don’t let other people dictate how and when you should study. You take your own decision and study when you feel you are thoroughly prepared and functional.

#3 Drown the white noise

Friends and family often give students unwanted advice. Also, there are friends or older siblings who boast of studying for over 12 hours a day. Don’t let this affect you and do not follow their style if it doesn’t suit you. You need to do what is best for you depending on your comfort level.

Physical activity is one of the best, scientifically proven methods to combat stress. Exercise directly reduces stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol. At the same time, exercise stimulates the production of endorphins, which elevate your mood and are natural painkillers.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

#4 Stay away from liars

We all have that one friend who always chants the same mantra – I am going to fail. I haven’t studied at all. I never revise. However, this friend still tops the class or passes with flying colours! You should not pay any heed to such people. You do your revision because it works for you.

#5 Don’t pretend to revise all day long

Just sitting in front of your books for the entire day and reading the same things repeatedly, won’t make it easier for you. Yes, you can watch a film or play for a while even during exams. We all need fresh air and something constructive.

#6 Go out and have fun

Yes, we know exams have arrived, but this doesn’t mean you lock yourself up and bury yourself in books. This can get claustrophobic, and you may get exhausted. Changing the scenery helps a lot especially when you choose to spend some time in nature. Health benefits of being in nature are numerous and it also helps you reduce your exam stress. You can sit in a nearby park to revise or move out of your bedroom or study room.

Helping your child to eat properly, be a little flexible and watch out for signs of stress like irritability, headache or stomach ache can help tackle the exam worries and build confidence in your child.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

#7 Plan your day

Having a study timetable is of great help. It helps you organise all your study material and study as per requirement. With the help of a timeline, adequate time can be allotted to each subject, and proper revision can be done accordingly.

#8 Do some exercise

Continue to exercise or do some activity in between exams. Don’t forget to have a bath and relax. You may listen to music, watch Papa CJ videos, draw or even watch cartoons. You need to escape from your mundane study routine and relax your mind. Sweating it out or solving a puzzle or two will activate your mind and you’ll be able to study better.

#9 Get rid of exam worry

As a student, you are the only person who knows how prepared you are for your exams. There is no point in depending on prayers or last-minute cramming up if you haven’t studied the whole year long. If you think you have prepared well, then great! However, if you are not ready, there is no point in worrying about it now. Once you are done with your papers, just move on. Overanalyzing what you wrote and how you might fare, will do you no good. Follow some stress management technique to stay worry less.

Also Read: 10 Effects of  Stress on The Body

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