Exams can be nerve wrecking for the best us and HSC exams are no exception. Some level of anxiety can be helpful in assisting us to perform at our optimum but too much can become debilitating. It can seem like this is crunch time for all your hard work over the last couple of years. If you are feeling overwhelmed about your upcoming exams, consider the tips below.
Identify what your specific worries are
Are they realistic worries? If so, create a plan on how to address these in practical ways. For example, if you are worried about your understanding of key concepts, approach your teacher for assistance or seek out a study buddy.Â
If your worries aren’t helpful or realistic, ask yourself ‘What evidence do I have for this worry?’, ‘How likely is it for this negative outcome to occur?’ ‘What is the worst thing that can happen?’ When we are feeling anxious, we tend to overestimate the likelihood of something bad happening and how bad the consequence will be. It can be helpful to address these specific worries more objectively so that we can examine how helpful and realistic these worries are. You can imagine what you would say to a friend in a similar situation.
But there are so many subjects to study for!
When there are so many subjects to study for, it can be hard to know where to begin. Create a schedule for revision of each subject based on the order of when the exams are to take place. This helps you to focus on what is most pertinent without overwhelming your brain with too much information. Ensure you schedule short breaks (no more than 10 minutes) during the study day but apply discipline in returning back to your study.
Self care is important
Don’t neglect everyday self care routines. Eating healthy and regular meals, sleeping on a regular schedule and regular exercise are more important than ever. These practices help us to maintain our usual functioning. Neglecting these areas will only serve to make your study routines more of a struggle to follow.
Practise Mindfulness
Mindfulness is about bringing your attention to the here and now and noticing what arises in our thoughts, feelings and behaviours.Â
Some people find a daily mindfulness practice helpful and promotes more adaptive habits and awareness. A regular relaxation practice such as using deep breathing or going for a walk can also be helpful ways to regulate our emotions.
Visualisation is Key
Visualising yourself achieving your long term goals may motivate you to soldier on with your study. This could involve attending your desired university and all that university life has to offer. Or this could involve visualising partying it up with your friends after the exams are over. Visualising yourself acing it in the exam room can also steer your mind towards the positive and reinforce good habits.
Think Big Picture!
HSC exams can seem daunting to many but it is important to apply perspective. This is an exciting period where you are at the end of another important chapter of your life. What comes next is up to you and it’s ok to have little idea where you are headed.Â
I personally did not achieve the UAI that I had hoped for which left me temporarily devastated. I was still able to enter a course that I enjoyed and pursue my career in psychology. There are many pathways to the same destination if you want something enough. Don’t let a few numbers determine where you wish to go in life.
What if I'm Neurodivergent?
If you are neurodivergent, draw on the study habits that have worked for you until now. Study at your own pace and be mindful of when your brain needs a break or whether certain study environments work best for your focus. Here are some other tips to consider: https://www.additudemag.com/learn-more-in-less-time/
I still feel overwhelmed
Having the support of friends and family can be incredibly important in providing us with practical and emotional support we need during this crucial time. Lean on the assistance of others when you need it and communicate what you need clearly. Seek support from a school counsellor or psychologist or from your teachers if needed.
Good luck! You’ve got this!
If you feel like you need ongoing support feel free to contact ORS by phone 1800 000 677 or click the following link to Refer now!
