How to Deal With Stress During Exam and Assignment Time

Whether you’ve got five assignments due on the same day or what seems like infinite back-to-back exams, every student feels the pressure at some point.

And if you don’t, you must be superhuman and can disregard this article.

Now, just to clear things up, I’m not about to give you a bunch of tips on how to study or how to get the best grade, because frankly, it would probably be poor advice.

However, I feel that I can share some ideas on how to keep cool while pushing through these stressful periods. It’s easy to lose sight of anything outside of the educational world when the clock is ticking and the deadline’s approaching. Hopefully, just being aware of these games the mind can play may help you cope. Hopefully.

1. Remember what you’re fighting for.

I’ve always found that knowing what I’m working towards helps me cope while counting down the days. It’s important to have a reward in mind that can be enjoyed after pushing through the hard times. For some people, it could be finally being able to catch up on that movie everyone is talking about. For others, it’s an overseas trip. Some may even take comfort in the simple fact that in two weeks, when all exams have been sat, they can sit on the couch and do absolutely nothing for a month. Whatever it is, keep it in mind, especially when the pressure reaches its maximum.

2. Take a breath.

Let what you’ve just studied sink in, or let your ideas percolate. Taking breaks allows your mind to rest and to not be in a constant state of action. Breaks don’t need to even be long. Just a few minutes of separating yourself from your studies can make all the difference.

3. Recharge the ol’ batteries.

Sacrificing sleep for study is incredibly tempting sometimes. Perhaps it feels like that extra hour of revision will make all the difference. However, sleep is essential! Really, what good is cramming so much information into your brain if you’re not alert enough to use it?

4. Know the task at hand.

Creating a checklist is a great way to stay motivated. For starters, breaking down large study loads or assignments into smaller tasks can help to make them feel more manageable. Not only that, but the satisfaction gained from checking off each task is unparalleled.

5. Make like a gymnast and be flexible.

As helpful as checklists or schedules can be, they also have the potential to be a hindrance. In my experience, rigidity is directly proportional to stress levels. Don’t be afraid to alter a plan as you go. The fact is, if you force yourself to stick to a plan that simply isn’t doable, your anxiety is sure to skyrocket. It is certainly a good idea to have a plan, as long as it remains adaptable.

6. You are not alone.

The most powerful tool anyone has when dealing with these stressful situations is the support of family and friends. Let people around you know when exams are coming up or that your next big assignment deadline is not far away. Tell them to expect you to be more on edge than usual. And when the stress really hits, lean on your support network. Just telling one person how you’re feeling can sometimes be all you need. Sometimes not, but that’s where the previously-mentioned tips come into play…

If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available now. Call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through to tough times.

Photo: BBC