Friday 30 June 2023

Coping With Test Anxiety and Performance Pressure


In our lifetime, we all have been through the stage and performance pressure. What we thought of as shyness turned out to be anxiety in adulthood. However, things are only like that, just a bit more severe than before. However, the thing about fear is that it is not curable with just medicines. You will need to work on yourself to get better at this.

However, this situation has worsened since we left school. Academic pressure is enormous, and students mix their academic failures with life failures. As a result, the impact becomes more dangerous for students. As elders and survivors of stress and anxiety, we need to guide young minds thoroughly to overcome the situation.

Here we will discuss 6 methods to cope with test anxiety and performance pressure. Starting with-

  1. Meticulous preparation

One of the well-known methods of combating exam anxiety is to being well-prepared. Start by organising your study materials and a study plan with specific goals and timelines. Break down the material into smaller, manageable sections and allocate dedicated study time for each topic. By being prepared and organised, you will feel more confident and in control, alleviating stress and anxiety.

  1. Relaxation Techniques

Incorporating relaxation techniques into your routine can significantly reduce test anxiety. Practising deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation will calm your mind and body. Try to do these techniques regularly, especially before and during the exam, to help alleviate stress and improve focus.

 

  1. Positive Self-Talk

Our thinking greatly influences our emotions and behaviours. When you think negatively, you can feel your muscle tenses, making your body stiff. So, whenever you feel that your thought process is getting negative, replace those thoughts with positive affirmations. Remember your prior successes and abilities. Repeat statements like, "I am well-prepared," "I can handle this," or keep reminding yourself about the things you have achieved earlier. Thinking positively can boost your confidence and reduce anxiety.

  1. Time Management

Proper time management is crucial when dealing with performance pressure. Break your study sessions into smaller sections and praise yourself for clearing the blocks. As you keep on achieving goals, you will feel more focused and dedicated towards your academic responsibilities. Prioritise your tasks and allocate more time for challenging topics. By managing your time effectively, you can avoid feeling overwhelmed and reduce anxiety.

  1. Healthy Lifestyle

Leading a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact your overall well-being and ability to cope with stress. Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity will maintain your physical health. As you attain good health, you can give time to your mental well-being. Limit your sugar intake and caffeine because it can make your anxiety symptoms worse.

  1. Seeking Support

As you take little steps to overcome your test anxiety and performance pressure, don't worry if things feel too much. Try to share the problems with someone you trust or go to an academic counsellor at school. If you still feel you are losing, you must visit a psychiatrist to overcome the trauma.

So, these are the few things you can try to include in your daily routine to tackle stress and anxiety. However, you can also build a new hobby that calms you down beside your academics.