Matric exams kicked off on Monday (21/10), and while the pressure is on, finding ways to manage anxiety and stress can help learners stay calm to perform their best.

“During an examination, we all experience several stressors that can contribute to increasing our anxieties and affect our overall well-being,” said North-West University senior psychology lecturer Dr Khido Ramadie.

“The signs of stressors are nervousness, difficulty in concentrating, and physical signs such as headaches and a racing heart.”

Symptoms of exam stress may include:

• Moodiness or negativity
• Being indecisive
• Loss or increase in appetite
• Poor sleeping patterns
• Lack of motivation to study

“As educators, we have to put things into perspective for the learners because we often think this is the be-all, a make-or-break situation,” said IIE Rosebank College deputy dean, Adrian Garden.

“These days there are so many more options that we don’t have to put so much pressure on learners and make them feel like this is so important. There is a bigger picture. Sometimes there might be a stumbling block, but there’s always a way to get back on track.”

‘Regular sleep is important because it impacts emotions and mood’

Fundi Connect has tips to help learners manage mental health:

• Get enough sleep: Regular sleep is crucial since it directly impacts our emotions and mood.
• Stick to healthy food, drinks and snacks: Eating well is always good for the body. Eating the right foods during exams will help you cope with stress or anxiety.
• Talk to someone you trust: It might be time to get support from someone you trust when feeling overly stressed about exams.
• Get that Body Moving: To improve circulation and offer relief to stiff muscles, you must remain active during this period.
• Make Time for Fun: It’s crucial to have a balanced schedule which includes fun activities to maintain a positive attitude and avoid feeling overburdened.

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