• Learning to manage your emotions will help you focus and succeed in school work and life in general.

Exam stress and pressure can be overwhelming for university students since at some point you didn't attend a certain lecture, or skipped a class for one reason or another but don't worry because it is not too late to be back on track before that exam day.

Remember to keep your focus and employ certain strategies to help cope with exams or rather that CAT exam anxiety.

Learning to manage your emotions will help you focus and succeed in school work and life in general. Here are some ten helpful techniques to help you deal with stress and anxiety as the exam period approaches:

1. Plan and organize your study schedule

Create a realistic study plan that allows for breaks, and adequate rest, and covers all the necessary material. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

2. Practice time management

 Prioritize your tasks and allocate specific time slots for studying, relaxation, and self-care. Avoid procrastination by breaking down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable ones.

3. Eat healthily

For your body to continue working effectively, it needs the nutrients it receives from meals. An individual’s eating habits have an impact on your emotional and physical well-being. For instance, consuming a lot of fats or sweets can make you feel lethargic or heavy. It is much simpler to control feelings of stress and worry when our body has the nourishment and energy it needs.

 4. Relax

Incorporate relaxation techniques into your routine, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, or mindfulness. These practices can help calm your mind, reduce anxiety, and improve focus. Enough Rest like relaxing before going to bed. Not a desk, but your bed is your sanctuary. Sound sleep aids in memory.

 5. Seek social support

Connect with friends, classmates, or support groups who are going through similar experiences. Sharing your concerns and discussing study materials can alleviate stress. However, ensure that social interactions are balanced, so they don't become distractions.

 6. Breaks and leisure time

 Take regular breaks during your study sessions to rest, recharge, and engage in activities you enjoy. This can include hobbies, listening to music, spending time in nature, or doing anything that helps you relax and unwind.

 7. Maintain a positive mindset

Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Remind yourself of your capabilities and past successes. Visualize yourself performing well in exams, and focus on the learning experience rather than solely on grades.

 8. Seek academic support

If you're struggling with specific topics or concepts, seek help from professors, teaching assistants, or academic resources available at your university, such as tutoring services or study groups. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification or additional resources when needed

9. Practice self-care

Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This may include spending time with loved ones, practicing hobbies, reading for pleasure, or engaging in creative outlets. Taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is crucial during stressful periods.

10. Maintain perspective

Remember that exams are a part of your academic journey, but they don't define your worth or future success. Approach exams as opportunities to learn and grow, and keep in mind that there are multiple paths to achieve your goals.

Remember that everyone copes with stress differently, so experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you.

If your stress becomes overwhelming or begins to significantly impact your well-being, consider seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist who can provide additional support and guidance.