30 Sep 2016

3 Ways to Cope with Study-Induced Stress

As the countdown to the annual final examinations begins, stress levels are about to reach their peak. Countless late nights will be sacrificed to maximise study time and cover as much course material as possible - this can be extremely stressful.

A boon or bane, stress in comfortable amounts can be a great push factor for you, propelling you forward to achieve your goals. However, overwhelming amounts of stress can lead to mental breakdowns and put you at a higher risk of serious long-term health conditions. Here are 3 sure-fire ways that can help prevent study-induced stress from getting the better of you.
 

Plan and Organise
Planning and organising a study schedule is perhaps one of the easiest ways to prevent being overwhelmed by study-induced stress. A well-planned schedule basically consists of a timetable, outlining specific times and topics to be covered. This will give you a good grasp of what is needed in preparation for the examination. This will also ensure that you cover your course materials systematically, and with sufficient time allocated to each chapter, lower the possibility of overlooking any important information. If executed well, you will be able to achieve a healthy study and play balance, instead of panicking and cramping everything during the last few days before the examinations.

 
Bitesize Goals
Studying an entire semester’s worth of material in preparation of an examination can seem like an extremely daunting task. However, with a slight change of perspective and proper planning, it will not seem like such an uphill task. Building on the previous point, the key would be to break it down into smaller attainable goals and then prioritising them. This process allows you to address the more important materials first while keeping tabs on your progress which in turn, motivates you to keep the momentum going to accomplish the next planned goal.

 
Factor in Time for Self-care
Given how precious time leading up to the examination period is, falling sick is perhaps be one of the worst things that can happen. Basic necessities like eating right, sleeping well and catering for break times throughout the day, are important and cannot be neglected. These breaks give your brain the space to process information and allows you to concentrate better. In addition, participating frequently in sports is also a great way to get your endorphins and blood pumping combating stress and preventing sickness.
 
 
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