7 Easy Things Maltese Students Can Do To Overcome Exam Stress
Most Maltese students are currently dealing with the trials and tribulations of mid-year exams and assignments – and stress and anxiety related to exams is a fairly common occurrence.
Events that make you feel upset or nervous may trigger stress – and the exam season will make you feel both!
As a University student myself, I can confirm that assignments and exams are certainly not fun.
However, through my years and years of studying, I have picked up a few tricks of the trades, so here are seven tried and tested ways to manage exam stress:
1. Plan ahead
I am definitely not one to advocate for this… BUT the few times I do plan ahead, I do feel calmer, and end up getting higher grades. If procrastination is second-nature to you, making an actual plan might terrify you – start simple, create deadlines for when you wish to finish an assignment, or when you wish to start studying for an exam instead of leaving it for the last-minute.
2. Reward yourself
Now this is more like it! Tell yourself that if you finish a given assignment by Friday, you can go out for the night and enjoy it with friends. Sometimes, you just need to manipulate yourself into getting work done, and that’s alright! Life is all about balance – completely limiting yourself from having any fun will do you no good.
3. Get enough sleep
This means no more all-nighters! If you plan ahead, you can plan enough time to both get work done, have breaks, AND get enough sleep. The benefits of a proper night’s sleep are often talked about, yet still, underestimated. Sleep helps your brain absorb new knowledge into your long-term memory so you may use it later on.
4. Eat dark chocolate
Yes, I’m telling you to eat chocolate… more specifically – dark chocolate. I’ve gotten into the habit of snacking on dark chocolate whilst I’m studying. I’m not really sure about the science behind it, however, according to the internet, dark chocolate releases endorphins which help fight stress – so there you have it. Plus, it’s healthy!
5. Ask for help
Whether you need help with the subject or you’re just struggling mentally, reaching out is not something to be embarrassed about. It doesn’t have to be a teacher or a therapist, sometimes just talking to a friend or a family member can work miracles.
6. Don’t compare yourself to others
We all know that type of person who is constantly studying, and has been studying since November. You do not have to compare yourself to them, everybody works at their own pace, and that’s okay. Your best is good enough!
7. Believe in yourself
Sometimes, all you need to do is believe in yourself, the truth is you’ve already made it so far! You’ve achieved so many accomplishments, little as they may be. Keep everything in perspective, in 10 years’ time, this will not be important. No matter the outcome, things will be okay!
I hope this has helped you, and good luck to everyone sitting down for exams!
How do you deal with exam stress?
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