Exam Stress

Its that time of year again, exams.  Teenagers up and down the country will be cramming, swatting and sweating as they prepare to enter the games or assembly hall to be tested on their knowledge.  

In the 22 years I spent as a secondary school teacher I have seen some pupils become so stressed about their exams they make themselves ill, sometimes, physically sick.  Parents,naturally worry about their child or children going through this stressful time, and most try to help them get through it relatively unscathed.  

Students, or anyone suffering with stress and anxiety may:

• Have difficulty concentrating.

• Have aggressive outbursts or tearful tantrums.

• Have problems eating normally or sleeping well.

• Think negative thoughts, fearing something bad is going to happen, “What if” scenarios playing repeatedly.

• Avoid normal day to day activities, taking part in hobbies/clubs, seeing friends, going to school/work.

The physical effects of anxiety and stress can present in symptoms such as:

• Dry mouth, lack of appetite.

• Digestive disorders.

• Chest pain

• Palpitations

• Difficulty sleeping

In Hypnotherapy we use some simple breathing exercises that help activate your body’s ‘Rest and Digest’ mode, which is kind of like hitting the relaxation button.

Then we dive into guided imagery, kind of like painting a picture in your mind, to help reshape any negative thoughts or worries into something positive and empowering.  It’s like turning fears into your own personal superpowers.  

We also use some other techniques such as EFT (emotional freedom technique) also known as tapping to help you uncover your true potential.  Think of it as unlocking a treasure chest full of positivity and possibilities.  

With hypnosis, it’s all about getting really focused on the stuff that’s bothering you, but in a very relaxed and comfortable way.  You’ll feel totally relaxed, like sinking into a cozy armchair.  When you’re in that relaxed state, your body takes a breather from stress mode and starts thinking more clearly.  Suddenly, tough situations become easier to deal with, and you’re able to make decisions like a boss.

Have a great day.

JKH