Matric exams are just around the corner. With general anxiety levels already running high, many of my clients are feeling totally overwhelmed and incapable at the thought of writing such an important set of exams.

The difficulty with such overwhelming anxiety is the negative impact that it can have on mental performance, self-esteem and general well-being. A certain amount of stress is helpful. It can improve mental clarity and concentration, increase productivity and help to motivate people to complete necessary tasks. Too much stress and the opposite effect is achieved. Lack of motivation, poor concentration, inability to complete tasks, sleep disturbances, moodiness, burnout…

The problem with anxiety disorders is that they have an extremely long and complicated differential diagnosis and frequently present with physical symptoms such as nausea or headaches. These are then often managed either with the wrong diagnosis in mind or with medications which treat symptoms only and do nothing to address the underlying concerns. Not all concentration issues = ADHD!

What can be done to assist students with exam related anxiety?

First and foremost, ensure that a correct diagnosis is made by an appropriate professional. Treating an anxiety disorder with the wrong management strategy and medication can be disastrous.

Whilst the judicious use of the correct medication can in some cases be very beneficial, it is not the only aspect to consider in management of exam related anxiety. General health in terms of proper sleep hygiene, good study practices, organisation of study space and techniques are all extremely important in the prevention and management of exam related stress. Something as seemingly inconsequential as how to sleep properly can be the make or break factor in terms of proper exam preparation.

Having a quiet and conducive study space and knowing how best to use that space are 2 of the most important factors to consider, however, many clients have never had any kind of guidance in this respect.

To assist scholars with their studies and the management of exam anxiety, we are going to be hosting a series of pre-exam workshops to assist with many exam management and study management tips and techniques, with the intention of optimising exam performance and minimising debilitating exam anxiety.

Watch this space for more info.

Please feel free to mail me on info@drclairelownie.co.za if you would be interested in this kind of workshop.