Matric (Grade 12) is a highly stressful time for many reasons. With matric being the final year of high school, there is a lot at stake for learners. Not only do they have to worry about their exams, but they also have anxiety about being accepted at university.
These reasons, among many, can lead to anxiety before and during matric exams. While it is normal to feel anxious during exams, the pressure on matriculants is even more.
Here are some tips on how to deal with matric exam anxiety
Anxiety is a heightened emotion of fear and worry. Feeling anxious about certain things is normal, like worrying before writing a test, even though you’ve been studying tirelessly. However, if you are feeling anxious and have an overwhelming sense of worry all the time, that is when your anxiety is part of a bigger problem. Exams are a stressful time in anyone’s life. Still, when this stress is excessive, you might need coping strategies to help you overcome your anxiety.
Work smarter
Studying for matric exams can be daunting if you haven’t adequately studied for your exams. Create a study plan that works for you and is simple.
On her website Counselling Psychologist, Laurian Ward advises breaking your tasks into smaller tasks to help you better manage the work.
Manage expectations
Be realistic about what you can do and what you aren’t able to do. This will help you set attainable goals. Setting realistic goals will help alleviate a lot of pressure and anxiety, as this will help you better plan and know what you need to do at what specific time.
Have a support structure
Having people you can rely on during your matric exams is critical to ensure that you stay on track. A support structure can be your parents, friend or even your teachers. Having someone you can talk to when you require assistance or even feel overwhelmed will help take the pressure off. Choose someone you know you feel free to express yourself and alert them when you are struggling.
Take care of your mental wellness.
Taking care of your mental health is by far the most important thing you have to do during exams. Make sure you are getting enough rest and eating healthy meals. Remember, a healthy mind begins with a healthy body. While you need to study, you mustn’t put yourself under too much strain. You have to recognise when you are doing too much and find ways to slow down. Take breaks between your study time and do activities that can help you relax, such as meditation.
Exercise will help you relax and be more aware to allow your mind to better function.
Conclusion
While your matric year might be the hardest yet, remember you can only do your best. If you are well prepared for your exams, you will have less anxiety during your exams.
We wish all the matriculants all the best for their 2021 exams.
To learn more about SPARK Randburg high school, click here.
