image
Posted on by St Mary MacKillop College

Managing Exam Stress: Taking Care of Yourself During Exam Time

Exams are in full swing, and it’s completely normal to be feeling a mix of pressure, nerves, and even excitement. A little stress can be useful to help you stay focused and alert, but too much can make it harder to concentrate and perform your best. The good news is that there are practical ways to manage stress and look after yourself throughout this busy time.

Plan and Prioritise: With exams underway, it’s important to stay organised and plan out your remaining study time. Focus on one subject or topic at a time rather than trying to tackle everything at once. Breaking things down into smaller, achievable tasks can help you feel more in control and confident.

Look After Your Body and Mind: Your brain works best when you’re looking after your whole self. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and eating regular, balanced meals. Build in short breaks between study or exams, even a quick walk, stretch, or chat with a friend can help you reset and refocus. Small acts of self-care make a big difference to your energy and mindset.

Stay Connected and Reach Out: You’re not alone, everyone feels some level of exam stress. Talking to friends, family, or teachers about how you’re feeling can help lighten the load and give you perspective. Make time for things that bring you joy and calm, like music, sport, drawing, or just spending time with people who make you laugh. Balance is key.

Believe in Yourself: Remember, you’ve worked hard all year to get here. Exams are just one part of your learning journey, they don’t define your future or your worth. Try to focus on doing your best rather than being perfect. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure, please reach out to the Wellbeing Team, your Year Level Coordinator, or a trusted teacher. There’s always support available.

 

X