Anxiety About Exams – Psychologist's Advice on How to Overcome It
A psychologist from KTU emphasizes the importance of managing anxiety related to exams, suggesting that initial stress can motivate study efforts, but excessive anxiety can lead to harmful physical and emotional effects.
The article addresses the growing concerns surrounding exam-related anxiety among students, notably during significant transitions in their educational journeys. Eimantas Lukoševičius, a psychologist from Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), explains that while a certain level of anxiety can be motivating for students, excessive stress may result in detrimental effects like burnout and sleep disturbances. It’s essential for students to recognize the signs of unhealthy anxiety and the impact it can have on their overall well-being as they prepare for pivotal exams.
Lukoševičius further elaborates on the sources of anxiety, which often stem from fears of failure, uncertainty about the future, and the pressure to meet personal and family expectations. He reassures students that feeling anxious is a natural response during such important phases, serving as a signal that their future aspirations are significant to them. However, persistent anxiety can require a proactive approach to manage it effectively, ensuring it does not impede their performance or mental health.
In light of upcoming educational reforms that will affect both exams and students' mobile phone usage, the article provides practical advice such as breathing exercises and grounding techniques to help students mitigate their anxiety. By implementing these strategies, students are encouraged to manage their stress levels and enhance their ability to focus on their studies, ultimately aiming for a more balanced and healthier approach to their academic challenges.