Exam prep – Dealing with stress

Exam season is here and it is a very stressful time for both students and teachers. Students stress about the work and achieving top results and teachers feel pressurised and responsible for students’ performance. Usually, a teacher gets blamed, especially from parents when students don’t achieve the marks that are expected from them. Much like load shedding, the first step to overcoming stress is to acknowledge it and accept it for what it is. The below tips can help students and teachers overcome exam season in the best way possible.

– We grew up with a line being drilled into our heads: breakfast is the most important meal of the day – there is definitely method in the madness. Fueling your body with nutrients and energy for the day is essential. Getting hangry is a real thing and it holds no benefits for anyone!

– Being organised and prepared is necessary to curb stress. Teachers and students often lose sight of life in general and other important tasks that need to be done when they are caught up in exam season. Nothing works better than a list – list things to be done and tick them off as you go. It is the most satisfying feeling when you get to the end of your day and all items on your list are marked off.

– When studying or marking, don’t try and pull all-nighters. You might feel that you are getting ahead of the game, but you are definitely doing more bad than good. For a rested mind and being extra focused it is very important to get enough sleep and give yourself that extra boost to concentrate.

– Take regular breaks. Psychologists have proven that you can only concentrate properly for about 30 – 45 minutes. After marking or studying for this time period, make sure you move away from your desk or workspace. Take a short walk or just get up to fetch a glass of juice, but make sure your short breaks are frequent.

– A good diet can make the world of difference. Keep a good blood sugars level to avoid highs and lows of energy, by eating slow-release foods like low GI bread, brown rice, pasta, fruit and veg. Also, make sure that you drink a lot of water, hydration is your best friend!

– Give yourself some downtime! It is very important to switch off and also give yourself a proper break. Take a hot bubble bath, block off some time to binge on your favourite series or spend some time with friends. All work and no play will make you a very dull student or teacher!

Exam season can be very overwhelming, but don’t let it get to you dear students and teachers – you are never alone. It may feel like things can get too much, but reach out to colleagues, your peers, spouses, partners and parents for support. Take a deep breath, count to ten and always remember: this too shall pass!