Everyone gets stressed during exams but it's important not to let it get out of control.
A little bit of stress can be a good thing as it motivates us to work hard. But exams can make stress levels get out of control, which can stop you performing at your best.
Look out for prolonged or extreme cases of the following if you feel the work's piling up:
Difficulty getting to sleep or difficulty waking up in the morning
Constant tiredness
Forgetfulness
Unexplained aches and pains
Poor appetite
Loss of interest in activities
Increased anxiety and irritability
Increased heart rate
Migraines/headaches
Blurred vision
Dizziness
If you've noticed three or more of the above symptoms and you've experienced them for a few weeks you may need to do something about your stress levels.
Learn to recognise when you're stressing out.
Avoid comparing your abilities with your friends.
Eat right, eat fresh fruit and veg and have a proper breakfasts
Sleep well. Wind down before bed and don't revise under the duvet. Get your eight hours.
Exercise. Nothing de-stresses the mind faster than physical activity, so build it into your timetable.
Quit the bad habits. Cigarettes and alcohol never stopped anyone being stressed for very long.
Panic is often triggered by hyperventilating (quick, shallow breaths). So if you feel yourself losing it during the exam, sit back for a moment and control your breathing. Deep breath in and out through the nose, counting to five each way.