Exam period causes many people in schools, colleges, and universities to experience high levels of stress. For some people, this could potentially trigger or intensify their disordered eating behavior.
On the outside, eating disorders might seem to be about appearance, weight, and food, when in reality it is a much more complex emotional or psychological issue.
Exam period can make people feel as if they are losing control over their lives. Cramming for the tests alongside other end-of-term commitments can result in an emotional roller coaster. A temptation to suppress feelings of distress by controlling eating habits might appear. Consequently, this can cause the development of serious issues such as anorexia or bulimia.
However, there are some always which can help to deal with exam stress:
Spend time with friends
Try to avoid talking about exams. It is good to get distracted for some time. Spending time with people who you feel comfortable with can boost your mood and give you more energy to work afterwards.
Allow yourself to rest
Taking breaks is very important. You can’t expect your brain to work perfectly 24/7. It needs time to regenerate. Resting is productive and prevents burnouts.
Sleep!!!
Make it a priority. Don’t deprive yourself of quality sleep. Sleep is an essential function which allows your mind and body to recharge. Without enough sleep your brain can’t function properly.
Set realistic and achievable goals
Don’t try to get everything done at once, otherwise it will make you feel overwhelmed. It is good to make a list of small tasks. By working on them one by one, you will feel more accomplished, which in turn can increase your productivity and self-satisfaction.
Make a study schedule
Setting out a plan with all the tasks can help you to use all the time more efficiently. It will also help you to focus better and to avoid multitasking. It is better to focus on one thing at a time.
Health over grades
It might sound hackneyed, but it is important to realize that grades are not everything. Health is the most important thing in life. All the achievements lose importance if health was sacrificed in return. Also, anxiety about grades can actually impede performance.
Journaling
Sometimes, writing down all the negative thoughts can be very helpful. It’s a way to detach them from your mind. It also helps you to reflect on them. Are the worries truly that significant?
Talk to others about your struggles
It can be helpful to share your thoughts with others. Find someone who you can trust and who can support and encourage you. It is good to get things off your chest.
Don’t expect to be perfect. We all make mistakes and that is okay. Knowing you’ve done your best and worked hard is really all that matters, not perfection.
If you feel like the eating disorder is arising again, seek support. Do talk to someone. Your friends and family members can help you to get through this difficult period. Don’t try to deal with it fully by yourself.
Comments