Exam season is an anxiety inducing time that we all experience at least once in our lives. Not only is there the hurdle of revision and exam anxiety and just when you think it is all over along comes results day. This is a very difficult time in our lives and yet there is little support for helping cope with the stress of results day and the anxiety that comes in hand.
During this time, you should nourish yourself and ensure that you are putting your needs first. It is important to keep yourself busy and distract yourself from the stress and anxiety of waiting. You have done all you possibly could at this point, whatever happens from here cannot be changed. Find comfort in knowing that you tried your best and worked to the best of your ability.
With this in mind, here are some of my tips on how to cope with results day stress:
- Find comfort in knowing that you worked your hardest and whatever happens does not limit you in the future.
- Fill your time with things that bring you joy. It can feel like you are waiting around for results day to come, which can lead to an overwhelming sense of anxiety. By doing things that make you happy, you are not only looking after your mental wellbeing, but you are also allow yourself time away from thinking about results. This puts you in a better mindset and can allow the overall anxiety of results day to lessen as a result.
- Surround yourself with people you care about. They can support you however you are feeling. If it becomes overwhelming, you can talk about your feelings and gain perspective on the reality of results day. Often people who have already experienced a results day will be able to ease your mind by talking to you about the reality and allow you to understand that things will work out no matter what grades you get. Grades are not your defining factors. Even if your path is diverted because of your results, you will find a way back to where you want to be. Besides, it always helps to talk your feelings through with someone who cares about you.
- Think of what comes next! Whether it’s higher education or work, you have a whole world of opportunities ahead of you. This is an exciting time. There are so many opportunities available to you, allow the excitement of this to lessen your nerves.
- Continue to nourish yourself, mind and body. Eat your meals, drink enough water, journal your feelings. By nourishing your body, you will help to nourish your mind, putting you in a better mindset. Think includes getting your body active, even if you simply start yoga or go to the gym, maybe a walk once a day? It is scientifically proven that physical activity releases endorphins and also helps to keep your mind off of results day and gives you an opening for a new passion.
- Know when it is too much. A certain amount of anxiety is inevitable during these times. However, if it is too much for you to cope with, reach out for help. Here are some examples of people you can talk too if you are feeling overwhelmed.
- Samaritans – 24/7: 116 123
- Anxiety UK – Monday-Friday (9:30-5:30): 03444 775 774
- CALM – Daily (5pm – midnight): 0800 58 58 58
By Hannah P – No5 Young Ambassador
