What is exam stress?
Exam stress is the pressure or worry someone may feel before or during tests. A little pressure can help us focus, but too much can make it harder to think clearly, sleep well or feel confident.
Signs of stress
- ✓ Feeling worried, overwhelmed or tearful
- ✓ Trouble sleeping or switching off
- ✓ Headaches, stomach aches or feeling tense
- ✓ Finding it hard to concentrate
- ✓ Avoiding revision or feeling stuck
Try this calming exercise
Use this before revision or before an exam:
- 1. Breathe in slowly for 4 seconds.
- 2. Hold for 2 seconds.
- 3. Breathe out slowly for 6 seconds.
- 4. Repeat 4 times.
Study planning tips
- ✓ Break revision into small 25-minute blocks.
- ✓ Start with one topic instead of everything at once.
- ✓ Use short breaks to reset your brain.
- ✓ Prepare your bag and equipment the night before.
- ✓ Ask for help if a topic feels confusing.
Mini Challenge
Write down 3 things you can control today and 1 thing you can let go of.
When to ask for help
If exam stress feels too heavy, talk to a trusted adult, teacher, parent, carer or support service. You do not have to manage it alone.