I’m curious about how often we underestimate the toll that exam stress can take on our mental health. It’s funny, isn’t it? We often think of exams as something that only students go through, but I’ve found that the pressure can pop up at any stage in life.
Recently, I had to take an important certification exam for work. As the date approached, I could feel this tight knot forming in my chest. I thought I was prepared; I had studied, taken notes, and even joined a study group. But somehow, none of that seemed to ease the mounting anxiety. It felt like I was a teenager again, sitting at my desk, cramming last minute and second-guessing everything I’d studied.
I noticed that my mind was racing with all sorts of “what if” scenarios. What if I blank out? What if I don’t pass? Those thoughts spiraled quickly, making it hard to focus on anything else. I started avoiding social gatherings because I couldn’t shake the feeling of needing to study. I missed out on time with friends and family, which only deepened that sense of isolation.
The funny thing about stress is that it can distort our perspective. There were moments when I felt completely overwhelmed, convinced that this exam would determine my worth or my future. Looking back, it seems a little absurd. But in the heat of the moment, those feelings felt so real and pressing.
I found a bit of relief in simple things, like going for walks or cooking. It was like my brain needed a break, a way to step away from all that pressure. I started practicing mindfulness, which helped me recognize when my thoughts were spiraling and brought me back to the present moment. It was so liberating to realize I didn’t have to carry all that weight alone.
Once the exam day came, I tried to remind myself that it was just another step on my journey, not a definitive judgement on my abilities. And guess what? I passed! But the most valuable lesson for me wasn’t about the score—it was learning to manage those spirals of anxiety and to nurture my mental health amid stress.
I’d love to hear if anyone else has experienced similar feelings during exams or any high-pressure situations. How do you cope with that kind of stress? What strategies have you found helpful? Let’s share our stories!