It’s that time of the year when students are under stress because of exams.
Everyone wants to do well, but it turns on the extra pressure and anxiety.
“They worry about how to study, failing, about letting their families down and how are they going to cope on the day of the exam,” according to a top doctor and homeopath, Dr Erika Coertzen.
She said that exam stress often takes a punishing toll on teens which may impact negatively on their adulthood,
The calls to help lines usually spike during the exam period when students and pupils feel overwhelmed and do not know who to talk to. Dr Coertzen said this toll on young people and the trauma they experience may impact negatively on future stressful situations.
Dr Coertzen added that various helplines offer telephonic counselling and support, and share practical tips, including how to study, various learning methods, how to draft a timetable, exam tips, what to do on exam days and other coping skills.
According to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC), in the UK, the number of young people seeking exam stress counselling has increased by 200 per cent in recent years. Dr Coertzen said parents and family members should be vigilant during exam times and have an open line of communication.
She added that over-the-counter and homeopathic remedies may assist by providing symptomatic support for stress and anxiety and that those dealing with stress should consult a medical professional if it becomes a pattern, and should consider the following tips:
- Draft a study plan well in advance
- Be prepared and stay positive
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help
- Don’t bottle up feelings, speak to a teacher, friend, parent or counsellor if overwhelmed
- Get enough sleep – at least eight hours a night
- Be alert, listen to your body and exercise daily
- Take breaks between study sessions
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