A Teenager's Guide to Self Care and Managing Stress During Exam Season
Create an A* self care routine this exam season
Exams with Ease
Being well prepared for your exams is the best way to help overcome stress and anxiety, and gives you the best chance of getting good grades. From getting prepared to what to pack in your school bag, here’s our advice on how to get through exam season
1.Be prepared
Make sure to revise properly in the lead up to your exams. Find a revision style that suits you, and follow a schedule. Look at as many past exams papers as you can and be sure to ask for help when you need to. This will put you in the best position possible walking into the exam.
2.Start the day right
Pack your bag the night before with everything you need, so there’s nothing to think about in the morning. Start your day with a good breakfast, before getting to the exam hall with plenty of time so you’re not stressing about being late.
3.Read the questions carefully
It may sound obvious but always read the instructions or questions carefully. Read the whole paper before you start. While it can be easy to panic in exams, misunderstanding what’s expected of you is an easy way to lose marks. If anything is unclear be sure to ask your invigilator – they’re there to help you.
4.Plan your time
Knowing how much time you have and allocating it correctly, is one of the most important things when it comes to exams. Don’t spend too much time on a question as you’ll run out for others. If you’re stuck, move on and come back to it at the end.
5.Once it’s over, forget about it
There’s no point dwelling on the past when it comes to exams. Don’t spend time going over it in your head or comparing answers with friends – chances are you won’t even remember properly, so focus your energy on the next exam instead.
Exams can come with a lot of pressure and it’s easy to become overwhelmed. But feeling stressed is normal, you’re not alone, and the important thing is learning how to cope. Remembering to practice self-care during exam season is key and mental health charity Mind offers these top tips to improve your wellbeing:
• Make time for things you enjoy. Find ways to release stress and celebrate progress. You could listen to music, draw, cook, play with a pet or go for a walk. You can try things alone or with friends.
• Talk to others about how you feel. Connect with other people, especially people who are going through the same thing.
• Try to find balance. Take regular breaks and be realistic about what you can do in a day. Keep things in perspective and remember that exams won't last forever.
• Take care of your physical health. Make sure you get enough sleep, food, water and exercise. If you take regular medication, keep up with your routine.
• Focus on yourself. Try not to compare yourself to others. Think of things you like about yourself and what you're good at – this can help boost your confidence.
Kånken backpack, £115 Fjällräven, stockists regionwide
Scientific calculator, £16.49 Casio, stockists regionwide
Citizen leather strap watch, £129 David Summerfield, Metrocentre and Chester-le-Street davidsummerfield.co.uk
Essential pen pack, £8 Typo, Metrocentre
Large clear pencil case, £1.99 WHSmith, branches regionwide
Sistema tritan drinks bottle, £12 John Lewis & Partners, Newcastle
Shopping for skincare can be difficult at any age, but it’s even harder for teenagers with changing skin. Simplicity is key for teens, as complicated regimes can be counter productive when it comes to young, sensitive, blemish-prone skin
Emergency pimple patches, £12 (member’s price) Beauty Pie
Clear Genius clarifying toner + serum, £14.95 Bliss
Sensitive Skin SPF 30 sunscreen for teens, £25 Spots & Stripes
Organic coffee face oil, £16.99 UpCircle
Take The Day Off cleansing balm, £40 Clinique
Teen Skin Fix pore blaster face wash, £6.95 Nip + Fab
Get Growing
Now’s the perfect time to get out in the fresh air, and gardening’s a great way to teach kids about nature and some basic science. Thanks to their rate of growth, along with the wow factor when the flowers come out, sunflowers are one of the best plants for children to start their green-fingered journey with. Click here for seven easy-to-follow sunflower grow and care tips.
