Stress busters for exam season

Exam season can always be challenging, especially after the holidays

So it's important that you know how to manage your stress levels, develop coping mechanisms and look after yourself during this time. 

Everyone handles exam season differently, so don't compare yourself to others. Each student will have their own way of coping, studying and finding support. To lend you a helping hand, here are some simple stress busters to help you smash those exams and keep a positive mindset. 

Take regular breaks - don't burn yourself out

Nobody wants to spend all day in the library. Doing short, intense periods of revision is great way to avoid procrastination and leaves you with more time to do the things you enjoy.

This might be easier said than done, but there's also a lot of apps that can help you focus and plan your day such as Flora and Be Focused. It can also be useful to find yourself a study buddy so you can motivate each other! Remember to reward yourself for each milestone you hit so you're more likely to go back to your work and reach those targets. 

Make time for yourself

Whether you spend time practicing self-care or doing your hobbies, it's just as important to make time for yourself as it is to revise. To stay motivated and positive you need to also make time to unwind.

If you find yourself getting stressed studying, taking up meditation can help ease your mind and focus on yourself. Not only can it reduce negative feelings, it can also increase your imagination, patience and self-awareness so you can control your emotions better and in turn can improve your studying. Getting some exercise is another way to destress as it releases endorphins which can help you feel good!

Get outside

Staying in the library or your bedroom revising all day can make you restless and less productive. Sometimes getting some fresh air and stretching your legs can do wonders!

Taking yourself on a light walk around your accommodation or the city is a great way to spend a break from revising. Spending time in nature has so many undermined benefits. For example, rhythmic exercises has shown to have a calming effect, reducing levels of the stress hormone. Being overwhelmed by a wealth of information when revising can be draining but spending time in nature can help you focus for longer. So grab your shoes and get outside. 

Drink plenty of water and eat well

To keep those energy levels up, you have to stay hydrated and get all of the nutrients you need to power you through those long study sessions. If you start to neglect your body during exam season, it can decrease your concentration and increase fatigue which won't help you in the long-run. 

Some foods can even help to naturally relieve your stress so they're definitely worth stocking up on! 

Prioritise your sleep

You might think that sacrificing hours of sleep to study is beneficial, but not getting enough hours of sleep a night can have serious effects on your mood, body and performance. Lack of sleep can cause a heightened stress response, depression, anxiety as well as cognition and memory deficits.

Keeping track of how many hours of sleep you get a night and developing a good routine are key. After all, you want to feel the best you can for when exams roll round. 

Spend time with family and friends

Having a good support system whilst at university is essential. Speaking to family and friends, sharing your worries and getting advice from loved ones can make you feel a lot better. If your friends are also stressed during exam season, it can be helpful to share your tips and experiences with each other as you'll all be in the same boat.

Try scheduling a video call or hangout when you have the time. Talking about your worries, stresses and challenges can lift a huge weight off your chest. 

Don't be afraid to seek out support

We also have lots of support on offer so you should definitely make the most of it as and when you need it. From booking one-on-one appointments with a Wellbeing Advisor to 24-hour support via phone from our partners at Spectrum.Life, you can access wellbeing support within the university or out of hours whenever you need it. 

If you'd feel more comfortable speaking with other students who have been through the same experience, you can also submit a form to chat with our Peer Supporters who provide a non-judgemental and confidential listening space. Or attend one of our workshops, join a group or try an event organised by the Student Wellbeing Service. We're here for you!

Remember to look after yourself this exam season and don't be afraid to ask for a helping hand to get you through.

Good luck!