Exams can be one of the most stressful periods in a learner’s journey. In this insightful article, ABE Ambassador, Madalo Haji talks about the emotional challenges students often face during exams such as anxiety and self-doubt. Drawing on her own experience co-invigilating ABE assessments, she highlights the importance of mental health awareness and shares practical tips for managing exam-related stress.This article offers valuable guidance to help learners approach exams with greater confidence and resilience. Read the full article below:
''It was during the May traditional timed examinations where I had the privilege to co-invigilate, I could not help but notice how writing examinations becomes so stressful for students as they make them go through several stages ranging from fear, uncertainty, self-doubt, anxiety and restlessness. If these conditions are left unattended to, they can lead to more fatal conditions, for example, depression and in the worst case scenario, suicide.
In examinations, no matter how prepared a candidate is, he or she still feels unprepared when they enter the exam room. They still fidget during examinations, as it feels like the first time they were being tested. We have all been in that situation several times, and the feeling is the same. The tension, so huge! Whispering last-minute notes while others stare at the floor, locked in silent battles of self-doubt.
In order to be fully prepared, before examinations, students should establish a routine for studying and practice relaxation techniques. Other important aspects to take into consideration include staying active and eating well, prioritising sleep, limiting negative self-talk, staying connected and avoiding excessive caffeine and stimulants, as these, if not handled well, may be major causes of stress and emotional breakdown. In addition, they need to prepare logistically by knowing the materials they are to carry beforehand when they are entering the examination halls. All writing materials have to be in check as expected for the students’ requirements in the particular examination to be taken. The challenge of not carrying the necessary materials makes students start failing even before the commencement of the examinations, and before entering the examination hall. This affects their mental well-being and chances of failing an exam are very high, as success begins with preparation.
As they are commencing the exams, they should try with the utmost care to stay calm, maintain a positive mindset. When tackling questions, they should concentrate on one question at a time so as to reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. Staying hydrated and nourished also helps students in improving concentration and memory, boosting their energy levels, reducing stress and fatigue, preventing headaches and dizziness, as well as helping in supporting better sleep in students.
After exams, the students should focus on being healthy and limiting negative self-talk to improve their overall mental health by reducing stress and protecting their self-esteem. Suffice it to say, they should focus on post-exam self-care, which will help in restoring energy as exams are mentally and physically draining. Remember, every ending is a new beginning.
In conclusion, as a trained psychosocial counsellor, noting that some of the students were overtaken by anxiety, it was advisable for them to practice breathing exercises before the commencement of the examinations in order for them to take away the fear they were experiencing. And, this is one of the best techniques that has to be used before and during the examinations.
Preparation and composure are key.''
Written by ABE Ambassador, Madalo Haji #ABEWay
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