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How do I manage A-Level stress?

So, It's under a week till I have my first exam and I am so ridiculously anxious. I'm not the highest acheiving student as a general rule (most recent mocks I got BCD) so I obviously do not expect excellent grades but at the same time I've worked really hard for this so I don't want this to come to nothing. I've been revising like my life depends on it (honestly it does) and my anxiety has gotten so bad that I've ended up getting norovirus because my immune system is messed up. I'm really REALLY worried about everything and I'm not coping well at all. It's like I'm living in hell right now and there's no escape. PLEASE, anyone that's done this before tell me how I can fix it.

Reply 1

Hey, even if you don't get the grades you want, you can still get into university even if it means doing a foundation year first. It will be okay no matter what and there are solutions for every outcome. Keep revising but also give yourself a few hours each day to just go on a walk or listen to music to relax. Good luck!

Reply 2

Reply 3

Original post
by wyverses_
So, It's under a week till I have my first exam and I am so ridiculously anxious. I'm not the highest acheiving student as a general rule (most recent mocks I got BCD) so I obviously do not expect excellent grades but at the same time I've worked really hard for this so I don't want this to come to nothing. I've been revising like my life depends on it (honestly it does) and my anxiety has gotten so bad that I've ended up getting norovirus because my immune system is messed up. I'm really REALLY worried about everything and I'm not coping well at all. It's like I'm living in hell right now and there's no escape. PLEASE, anyone that's done this before tell me how I can fix it.

You've been working hard now you just need to get through those exams. If you feel your exams don't go how you wanted then there will be other options and clearing opens well before exam results so you'll have plenty time to look at a plan B, or C or D - so mentally box that up and open it once your last exam is done as thinking about that now is wasting your mental energy. Keep your mind in the moment and focused on today and each today until your exams finish, trust yourself to do what you need to do to give you the best chance....and get some fresh air, have a couple of hours outside doing something fun every day, and really minimise your time on here and socials for the next few weeks. Good luck.

Reply 4

thank you anon, your words are really kind and comforting
Hello there!

It's completely understandable to be anxious with exams approaching.

Here are some practical steps that you can try.

-Establish a Structured Study Routine

Break Down Study Sessions: Use the Pomodoro Technique. Divide your revision into manageable chunks, such as 25-minute focused sessions followed by 5-minute breaks

Create a Study Schedule - Plan your study times and stick to them. Consistency can help reduce stress.

-Optimize Your Study Environment

Choose the Right Spot: Find a quiet, comfortable place with good lighting and minimal distractions.

Limit Distractions: Keep your phone and other distractions away during study times.


Breathing exercises:

Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your mind.


Exercise

Engage in physical activities like walking or yoga to boost your mood and energy levels.

Eat nutritious meals to fuel your body and mind.

Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to enhance concentration and memory.


-Seek help if needed

Talk to Someone: Discuss your feelings with friends, family or anyone in the school.
Sharing your concerns can provide relief and perspective.

If stress persists, consider seeking support from mental health professionals.


Remember, trust in your preparation, and know that it's okay to seek help when needed.

You are not alone.
You've got this!

I hope this helps!

Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador

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