5 tips to fight exam anxiety

In situations of anxiety and stress, your breathing is usually very fast and shallow. The result is a lack of oxygen in the brain. Therefore, a first step against exam anxiety is to breathe in and out slowly into your stomach. This will calm you down, stimulates your circulation and supplies your cells with enough oxygen. Count to five as you inhale, hold your breath for five seconds, and finally count to five again as you exhale. Focus entirely on your breath and on how your stomach rises and falls.

BU: Exam anxiety can be overcome with the right strategies.

Exam anxiety can increase over time. Therefore, a good strategy is to say "stop" to yourself right at the beginning. Remind yourself that you are prepared and that you are going to do your best. You can also consciously remember situations where you've mastered things. Instead of focusing on fear, you should focus on what you can do.

Here's another tip to help you avoid focusing too much on your exam anxiety: Think back to a moment you’ve enjoyed, like your last weekend or a great vacation, and wiggle your two big toes. This does not only help you to focus your mind on something else, but also helps you to release tension in your body.

One of the triggers of exam nerves is the unfamiliar situation and new surroundings. Therefore, try to make your circumstances as comfortable as possible. Pack your lucky charm or take your favorite non-alcoholic drink with you to the exam. If you have some time before the exam, you can eat your favorite breakfast or take a walk in nature.

It sounds trivial, but it's another building block that can help you overcome your exam anxiety. It's important to start revising your notes early in the semester so that you can organize the material well. This way you don't get stressed or feel overwhelmed when you're studying. Remember to plan enough breaks and strengthen what you have learned with repetitions and learning checks.