When we talk about exams, we all tend to be afraid, but in a national level exam like NEET, the fear reaches another level because the number of applicants who appear is negatively proportional to the number of applicants who clear the exam. This is one of the main reasons that causes stress and anxiety in everyone, whether it is students or educators, everyone is afraid of exams. Some students even have nightmares before exams, but there is no reason to be afraid. It is just an exam for which you have prepared well.

Causes of stress

Students are one of the most common victims of stress. Factors such as financial expenses, excessive obligations, family expectations, deadlines and workload trigger stress in students. While a small amount of stress is very beneficial and serves as motivation for students, too much stress can interfere with their daily lives. When it builds up over time, it can lead to several serious problems such as depression and anxiety. Managing stress early on can help maximize students’ experiences and opportunities in college.

How can you manage exam stress?

1. Remember to breathe: Taking a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises will help you calm your body’s stress response and bring your attention back to the present moment.

2. Eat well, sleep well and exercise: Pulling all-nighters, eating poorly, and getting little exercise will exacerbate symptoms of anxiety. So make sure you get 8/9 hours of sleep, less caffeine, more water, and at least half an hour of exercise each day to help your body work at its best.

3. Set realistic goals for yourself: Setting realistic goals, whether it’s several weeks, days, or hours until your exam, will help you put everything into perspective.

4. Slowing down by panicking: Panicking before, during, or even after an exam is common among college students. If you panic at any point, take six deep breaths, have a drink, and then go over the assignment again, making sure to break it into several manageable sections.

5. Believe in yourself and stay positive: When we are constantly faced with new challenges, we often forget how far we have come and how much we have already accomplished. Since you have prepared well, you should have no reason to worry. So if you have a negative thought, try to replace it with a positive one. If you constantly focus on the negative aspects of a situation, you will be burdened by mental stress (Thompson & Gaudreau, 2008). Instead, try to see the glass half full and remain optimistic during difficult times.

6. Allocate time: Proper time management is one of the most effective techniques for reducing stress (Macan 1990). Whether it is relaxation, work, or study, time must be used wisely. Students must be able to create a schedule and stick to it.

7. Stop procrastinating: The best way to stop procrastinating is to complete the most difficult tasks first. Most people procrastinate because they dread the task they are putting off. Eliminate the dreaded task, and you are good to go.

8. Spend time with friends: A cup of coffee with family or friends is all you need to bring your stress levels back to normal. Stress can also get worse when you feel lonely. Sharing all your thoughts with someone you trust will make you feel much better right away.

9. Do something you love: When you are feeling extremely stressed, take a break and do something you love. Whether you paint or listen to music, doing something you enjoy can brighten your mood and take your mind off a stressor.

Essential to eliminating stress

Students and their counselors need to be positive throughout the admissions process because it’s the only way to see through all the possibilities. Rigidity around desires and choices always increases stress levels, which is something students should avoid. Choose what is available and stop chasing things that are unattainable. A positive attitude makes you feel optimistic about everything and opens your horizons.