Exam stress Support

We have all taken exams, we may even be likely to be around students taking exams, and let's be honest, it can be a time that is full of anxiety, stress and dysfunctional behaviour. Yet does it need to be this way? I put the case for a different way to approach stress, anxiety and exam pressure and have support from Nina Stabey who talks about the effects of stress on the digestive system and Stephen Gammack who talks about the importance of exercise and movement as part of a study plan. Top tips:

• Consider how much communication is unposken....tumbleweed moment ...
• Consider what expectations you are putting on your young person or yourself
• See the lead up to this time as an opportunity to build ongoing life skills
• Ensure exercise is part of the weekly routine - regular walks ease stress levels
• Look at making dinner time family time 
• Consider the food at home - what are the easy snack
• Getting up from the desk can change the intense feeling of pressure of studying in the body
• Exercising releases stress busting hormones
• Consider the many different ways we all got to where we got to
• Remember that their life is not our life, they have to find their own way
• Take time off during their exam period to drive them to and from exams
• Consider the importance of getting help - don't wait till something is broken

Further resources ​

Remember if you are running from a saber toothed tiger your body is not going to want to digest food. But you are NOT being chased by a saber toothed tiger so take a break, don't be in a rush. Take your time and enjoy your meal, then you will know when you are full and when you have eaten something that supports your brain. Some foods help you remain feeling light and awake and there are others that just feel heavy and make you want to fall asleep! Exercise is a must - when you hear what Stephen says about our connective tissue and the importance of exercise for mental and physical health you will enjoy taking a break and see how much more productive you will be afterwards. 

Get in contact with Nina Stabey
Get in contact with Stephen Gammack
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