Exam Stress

In this section:

• Strategies for coping with exam stress
• Getting help and useful contacts
• Share your exam stress tips

Most people get stressed about exams but this stress affects different people in different ways. Whilst the adrenalin and pressure can have a positive effect on some, others find themselves filled with anxiety. 

Whilst it's probably not possible for most of us to completely eliminate stress during this time, some of the pressure can most definitely be alleviated. During your exam period you need to try and relieve these other stresses so you can focus on your work.

If stress gets the better of you at exam time then performance, happiness, and even your health can suffer. High levels of stress can cause an excessive production of adrenaline resulting in headaches, racing heart, fatigue, irritability and sleeping problems. Remember - it's perfectly normal to be a bit anxious, but if it's making you ill there are people who you can talk to for support.

Strategies for coping with stress:

• If you suffer from particularly high levels of stress at exam time there are steps you can take that may help.
• Relaxation or meditation
• Talking to friends and family
• Tension release (e.g. shouting ‘arrrrgghh'!)
• Exercise
• Diet
• Increased assertiveness
• Effective time management and prioritisation

Some examples

1. Do one thing at a time - make a list and prioritise.
2. Learn to relax - the simplest and often most effective form of relaxation is to take some slow, deep breaths.
3. Talk over your worry - you may be able to see a solution when you put your problem into words either with friends or relatives.
4. Don't expect too much of yourself - no one is perfect. Try saying "I would prefer" rather than "I must" do something.
5. Exercise! Feel better about yourself and gain a sense of achievement from your efforts.
6. Keep things in perspective - nothing is the end of the world. Imagine how you will feel in 6 months about your problem.
7. Treat yourself and take time out - have a relaxing bath or go out with friends. You'll feel more positive about yourself and better able to cope.
8. Think positive - if you can picture yourself coping successfully then this will help you feel more confident.

Getting help and useful contacts

If you are finding exam stress too much to deal with you may benefit from speaking to someone about it. Like any form of stress and anxiety, sometimes this can go beyond your control and can be too much to deal with alone. A health professional may be able to help you: Student Counselling (see below) or you may want to speak to your GP. Or UBU's Student Advisors provide a ‘breathing space' and a chance to talk and Nightline provide a listening service from 8pm-8am each night.

Don't suffer in silence!

• Student Counselling Service
  You can make individual appointments (in person, by phone or email) or they have drop-in sessions on Wednesdays 2-4pm (booking recommended).
  They are also running some workshops and group sessions but places are limited so act quickly.
• Student Health Service
• Just Ask
• Nightline
• For more information, MIND have a good leaflet

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Share your exam stress tips

What do you do to keep stress free during exams? Share your ideas below!