Are you taking important exams this year and wondering how you can cope with them and your grief?  Dealing with exam stress whilst experiencing grief can be extremely challenging. We have some tips for you-

 Be present

·      Focus on doing the best you can and don’t think about the end result.   

 Plan ahead

 ·      Make a revision plan, making sure you have plenty of breaks in.  Short chunks of time work best, 20 minutes study then 10 minutes break.  You can use tools like digital apps or planners to help you with revision planning.  This can help reduce your stress and keep you on top of the revision.

Available support

·      If you are struggling to revise, check if you school, college or university has any support services they can offer for guidance and assistance over revision and exam time. 

Reduce stress

·      Look at different techniques to reduce your stress.  These can include mindfulness, listening to music, art or breathing exercises.  Using these can reduce your anxiety, helping you to relax and focus during exam time. 

 Talk to Someone 

·      If you are feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone you trust about how you are feeling.  This can be a friend, family member or teacher.  Tell them if you need extra support and how they can help you, either practically or emotionally. 

 Self care

·      Think about other ways you can look after yourself – getting enough sleep and eating nutritious meals is important.  What activities do you enjoy doing that you can continue to do during exam time?  This can include exercising, sport or meeting friends. 

Remember

·      It is normal for those feelings of grief to arise and missing your special person more around times of stress and anxiety, like exams.  Take time to remember them as this will provide you with some comfort and a feeling of connection, which will always be there, especially during difficult times.

Exam Day

·      You may feel it is important to feel connected to your special person while sitting your exam. This could include having a photograph of the person with you or wearing a piece of jewellery given to you by them or which belonged to them.  You could also carry something which belonged to them in your pocket or in your bag, keeping them close to you while you sit your exam to give you comfort and reassurance.

·      If you feel your exam hasn’t gone well, speak to someone about this and tell them how you are feeling about it.  This could be a friend, family member or a teacher.  It is important you talk to someone and don’t bottle up what you are feeling.

Results Day

·      Results day can be difficult when you are missing a special person, as you wish they were there with you.  Writing a message to them or lighting a candle on the day can help you feel close to them.