EXAM STRESSED? TRY THIS

Exam season brings with it all types of stress and challenges that can pile on pressure. Test anxiety can be particularly challenging for teens, as tensions related to academic performance are compounded by social expectations and worries about achieving future goals.

We've got all sorts of things to help including our Exam Stress Buster Set (including sleep balm, pillow mist & bath salts for £30) and here are some key points to consider regarding test anxiety in teens and some simple tips to help:

Recognise the Symptoms:

Test anxiety can manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms like sweating, trembling, or rapid heartbeat, as well as emotional symptoms such as fear, worry, or self-doubt. Teens may also experience difficulty concentrating, negative thoughts, or avoidance behaviours leading up to exams

Understand the Causes:

Test anxiety can stem from a variety of factors, including fear of failure, perfectionism, lack of preparation, or pressure from parents, teachers, or peers. Teens may also feel overwhelmed by the importance of exams for their future academic or career prospects.

Encourage Open Communication:

Create a supportive environment where teens feel comfortable discussing their feelings and concerns about exams. Encourage them to express any fears or worries they may have and validate their emotions without judgment. Offering reassurance and understanding can help alleviate some of the pressure they feel.

Teach Stress Management Techniques:

Help teens develop effective stress management techniques to cope with test anxiety. This may include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness meditation, or visualisation techniques. Encourage them to practice these techniques regularly, not just during exam periods.

Promote Healthy Habits:

Emphasise the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, nutritious eating, adequate sleep, and time for relaxation and leisure activities. These habits can help teens manage stress more effectively and improve overall well-being.

Provide Test-Taking Strategies:

Teach teens practical strategies for managing test anxiety during exams, such as positive self-talk, time management, and problem-solving skills. Encourage them to focus on the present moment, break down questions into manageable parts, and use relaxation techniques if they begin to feel overwhelmed during the test.

Seek Professional Help if Needed:

If test anxiety significantly impacts a teen's academic performance or quality of life, consider seeking support from a school counsellor, psychologist, or therapist specialising in anxiety disorders. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based interventions can be effective in helping teens overcome test anxiety.