Exam Fever: Understanding the Stress and Overcoming It

In India now, across the nation, while on one hand people are preparing to celebrate the most popular festivals, on the other hand our youngsters are drowned in the pressure of examinations; be it in schools, colleges, coaching centers or competitive exams. The temperatures have begun to rise as the stress in homes about these exams increase. It is as if the entire family is writing an exam. The top most priority in the house becomes about how much this child studies, how well he/ she takes care of their physical health, focused more on eating and sleeping. The societal pressure, the comparison, the ‘sharma ji ka beta’ (neighbour’s son syndrome) is real.

Seldom does the discussion about how they are mentally handling it all, what coping mechanisms will help them, how much stress they must be going through….is heard.

Sad, but true.

India reported 1, 70,924 suicides in 2022, out of which 7.6% were by students and 2248 suicide deaths were attributed to exam failure.

‘Exam fever’ a term commonly used to describe the anxiety and stress that students experience as exams approach, affects individuals across all age groups and academic levels, from schoolchildren to college students and even adults preparing for professional certifications.

While a certain level of nervousness before exams is normal, ‘exam fever’ refers to an overwhelming feeling of stress that can significantly impact performance and well-being.

While there are several factors that contribute to exam fever, the top few are:

1. Fear of Failure - The pressure to succeed, whether self-imposed or from family and societal expectations, can lead to a fear of not living up to expectations.

2. Poor Preparation - A lack of adequate preparation or procrastination can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, as students may feel underprepared when the exam date looms closer.

3. High Expectations - Setting unrealistic goals or feeling the weight of high expectations from teachers, peers, or parents can amplify stress levels.

4. Peer Pressure - Constant comparisons with classmates or friends can lead to feelings of inadequacy, fueling exam-related stress.

5. Uncertainty - Not knowing what to expect in the exam, or being unsure about certain concepts, can heighten anxiety.

6. Time Management Issues - Struggling to balance study time with other activities or managing a heavy workload can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed.

Some students find the grind stressful, especially because they are away from their families. According to police data, 15 students died by suicide in Kota in 2022, 18 in 2019, 20 in 2018, seven in 2017, 17 in 2016, and 18 in 2015.

As adults, grown ups, teachers, parents, and guardians of our youngsters, we must take the responsibility to help them get through these challenges effectively.

While changing the education system may take longer, how we respond to examinations, what pressures we create - knowingly or unknowingly can do more harm than good. Here are some ways in which we adults can help.

1. Observe the symptoms of exam fever, anxiety and stress.

The symptoms of exam fever can manifest both physically and emotionally:

- Physical Symptoms include headaches, insomnia, sweating, loss of appetite, and stomachaches.

- Emotional Symptoms include feelings of panic, low self-esteem, irritability, and lack of focus.

Some students may experience "blanking out" during the exam, where their mind goes completely blank despite having studied.

- Some Behavioral Symptoms may show up as procrastination, avoiding study sessions, excessive sleep, or even over-studying (leading to burnout).

2. Provide support to every possible extent you can without adding more pressure on the child. Here are somethings you may consider

- Help Create a study schedule that balances study time with breaks and relaxation. Breaking down study material into manageable portions can prevent cramming and last-minute stress.

- Guide them to some Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques. Practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. It can help students stay calm and centered.

- Positive Thinking , replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations can shift a student's mindset from one of fear to one of confidence. The words, body language, tone of voice and energy you maintain around them, impacts their thinking process a lot.

- Encourage Regular Exercise. Physical activity can release endorphins, which are known to reduce stress and improve mood. Participate with them instead of simply asking them to do something on their own.

- Healthy Eating and Sleeping Habits. A balanced diet and adequate sleep are essential for cognitive functioning and overall well-being. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine right before exams is also crucial.

- Mock Tests and Practice. Simulating exam conditions by taking mock tests can help students become familiar with the format and reduce fear of the unknown. Be cautious while doing this so as to ensure you don’t overwhelm them in the process.

- Guide them to Seek Support. Talking to friends, family, or counselors about exam stress can provide emotional relief. Additionally, study groups can offer motivation and help clarify doubts.

- Focus on Progress. Instead of aiming for perfection, students and parents should focus on doing their best and celebrating progress, even small improvements. It sure is difficult to keep the comparisons and societal pressure aside. But it is not impossible.

Exam fever is a common challenge faced by many students, but it can be managed with proper preparation, positive thinking, and self-care. By addressing the root causes and practicing effective stress-management techniques, students can turn exam fever into an opportunity for growth, learning, and success.

As parents, teachers, and adults, we play a crucial role in helping children and youngsters overcome exam fever. The emotional support we provide can create a calm, encouraging home environment and helping manage study schedules without adding pressure.

As teachers, we can guide students academically, offering clear explanations, revision strategies, and reassurance about their abilities, while creating a positive, stress-free learning atmosphere.

As mentors and adults, we can share advice, personal experiences, and teach coping mechanisms like relaxation techniques. Together, we foster confidence, resilience, and balance, helping young minds approach exams with a sense of preparedness and calm.

If you want to learn more about how to help the students and youngsters around you experiencing exam fever, reach out to us. Our expert and experienced counselors can guide you the process. Contact us at +91 9000938021 or write to us at [email protected]

Author

Ariana