Exam season: Strategies to transform stress into success

By Smitha Chandrashekar & Dr. Aruna Shukla

Exam days are around! Students experience Happy, Euphoric, Tense, or Anxious moments. Students get enthusiastic when they aspire for success and prepare to write exams. Tension and anxiety grip them during the preparation, Smitha Chandrashekar & Dr Aruna Shukla throw light on the issue and suggest how to cope up with the situation:

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As exam season approaches, students embark on a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement and determination to tension and anxiety. While exams serve as formal assessments of knowledge and skills, it’s natural to experience a mix of emotions before the big day. However, with effective coping strategies, students can not only survive but thrive during this challenging period.

Exam stress manifests in various forms, including mental and emotional turmoil such as confusion, irritability, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Yet, with the right approach, students can manage these feelings and excel in their exams. Here are five practical strategies to help students tackle the pressure of exams:

1. Break It Down: Rather than succumbing to the overwhelming nature of the curriculum, break it down into manageable sections. Establish a study routine that includes regular breaks to prevent burnout. Setting achievable goals aids in maintaining motivation and combating procrastination.
2. Prioritize Healthy Habits: Self-care is paramount during exam preparation. Maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and engage in regular exercise to boost energy levels and reduce stress. Quality sleep is crucial for cognitive function, so aim for seven to nine hours of restful sleep each night.

By implementing these coping strategies, students can approach exams with confidence and resilience

3. Embrace Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine to stay grounded and focused. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga are effective in lowering stress levels and improving concentration. Taking moments to center yourself can significantly enhance overall well-being.
4. Cultivate Positivity: Foster a positive mindset by acknowledging your strengths and past accomplishments. Positive self-talk helps visualize success and reinforces confidence. Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and view setbacks as opportunities for growth. Remember, each challenge is a stepping stone toward improvement.
5. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to lean on friends, family, or teachers for support. Opening up about your concerns provides emotional relief and perspective. Joining study groups or collaborating with classmates can enhance learning and motivation. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.

By implementing these coping strategies, students can approach exams with confidence and resilience. Students, remember, your mental and emotional well-being are just as important as academic performance. Take care of yourself, stay organized, and trust in your abilities. You’ve got this!

(Smitha Chandrashekar is a Psychometrist and an Autism Spectrum Disorder Coach- Artemis, Canada. She is a Certified Career Counsellor.

Dr. Aruna Shukla is a Consultant Psychologist/ Certified Career Counsellor Co-Founder & Managing Director – CAPS, India. She is also Art of Living& IAHV Project Pavitra Trainer (Menstrual Health & Hygiene. She can be reached at Capsinternational2003@gmail.com).

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