Exam stress

Exam stress

What is stress?

Stress is your body's way of responding to any kind of demand or pressure (such as passing exams). You may find it difficult to cope with tasks, responsibilities or other types of pressures or you might get anxious trying to meet such demands.

This could be seen in you worrying excessively about getting results or about what you will do afterwards. Not only does it mess with your mind, it could also damage your physical health.

What are the symptoms?

• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Migraines/headaches
• Increased heart rate
• “Flying off the handle”
• Increased anxiety and irritability
• Loss of interest in activities
• Social withdrawal
• Poor appetite
• Aches and pains for no apparent reason
• Forgetfulness
• Constant fatigue
• Difficultly getting to sleep or difficulty waking up in the morning

Everyone has their bad days but you may need to do something about your stress levels if you are experiencing three or more of the above symptoms for some weeks. If you think you may be suffering from stress it is worth visiting your GP for a check up, to rule out other possible reasons for the symptoms such as depression.

Stressed out people have higher blood pressure, and where stress-levels hit boiling point sufferers are at high risk of death from any cause than their more chilled out friends. They are also prone to heart disease, colitis (inflammation of the bowels), thyroid disorders, and ulcers.

What causes it?

In the case of exam time it may be:

• The whole process of everything changing in your life – friends and yourself maybe moving away, you’re daily and weekly structure will be totally different
• The need to get high grades for the career you wish to take
• Pressure from parents and relatives to do well
• Uncertainty on what to do next – worrying you might make the wrong choice

While all of these fears and concerns are completely natural, your friends are probably feeling exactly the same whether they show it or not.  If you are getting yourself really worked up you need to try and relax.

How do I deal with it?

Try some of the following ways to calm down and chill out, if you are suffering from stress:

• Make some time for yourself to wind down. Having a bubble bath and listening to soothing music are two good ways of relaxing.
• Reading, meditation and yoga are good ways to help your mind and body relax.
• Regular and frequent exercise is a good stress reducer.
•  Skipping meals will deplete your energy and leave you drained so make sure you eat well.
• Making time to see your friends and family will help you unwind and let you unburden any problems.