How to Manage Exam Results Anxiety Before Results Day
Simple, practical ways to stay calm and lift the weight off your shoulders while you wait.
July 28, 2023 · By the Unitors Team
As results day gets closer, chances are that you're beginning to feel consumed by stress or worry. Just know that you are not alone! Students in Dubai and around the world are sitting through the exact same wait right now. The best thing you can do in a situation like this is to find healthy ways to distract yourself, something to help keep your mind from spiralling. Below are a few things you can do to lift the weight off your shoulders while waiting for the dreaded results day to arrive.
Try to Stay Calm
When you're in a state of panic, it's best to take a few deep breaths and try to understand why you might be feeling that way. You might be under pressure because of your family's expectations, or you could be uncertain about the way you answered some questions. Whatever the reason for your anxiety, remember that not passing an exam doesn't make it the end of the world, and it's nothing to be embarrassed about. There are always other options and other ways for you to achieve your goals, whether that's a resit, a different pathway, or a bit of extra support from a private tutor next time around.
Meet Up With Your Friends
Your friends are going through exactly the same wait, so lean on each other. Plan a day out, watch a film together or talk about anything other than exams. Sharing how you feel with people who genuinely understand takes the pressure off, and you'll quickly realise that everyone has at least one paper they wish they could sit again. Just avoid comparing answers or predicted grades, as that tends to feed the worry rather than ease it.
Go for a Long Walk
Simply going outside can boost your mood and increase your energy levels, especially if the people around you are making dealing with anxiety more difficult. In fact, walking has been proven to provide stress relief. Listen to some music, take a couple of breaths of fresh air, and you should already begin to feel much happier than you were before.
Stop the "What If" Thoughts
One major cause of post-exam stress is thoughts such as "What if I failed?", "What if I disappoint my parents or teachers?" and "What if I wrote the wrong answer for that one question?". Most of the time, these thoughts are unrealistic and can only bring you down. Instead, try focusing on the positive aspects. There's a more than likely chance you'll be pleasantly surprised with your results, and regardless of what happens, there is always time to improve and work your way to the top!
The Bottom Line
Results day nerves are completely normal, but they don't have to take over your summer. Stay calm, keep busy, spend time with the people who lift you up, and shut down the what ifs. Whatever the envelope says, it is a stepping stone rather than a final verdict, and there is always a path forward. And if one subject did let you down, a few sessions with an IGCSE tutor in Dubai over the break, or meeting our tutors to find someone you click with, can turn a shaky grade into a strength before next term. Good luck!
The Unitors Team
Expert tutors specialising in IGCSE, A-Level and IB across Dubai & Abu Dhabi.
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