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The Exam Wellness Toolkit: Safeguarding Your Mental Health

By December 12, 2024January 7th, 2025No Comments

Surviving Finals: Practical Tips for Student Success and Well-being

By Makeida Antonio

The exam period is usually marked by increased stress levels, reduced sleep, poor diet and social pressure to excel. To achieve one’s goals, good coping strategies must be implemented with mental wellness in mind. Failure to prepare is preparing to fail. That’s something I heard repeatedly throughout my education and it’s true. Not only will you lack important information for the exam, but you will also experience negative psychological effects.

It must be noted, however, that according to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, basic needs must be satisfied before achieving the level of one’s highest self. This highlights the increasing need to access affordable mental healthcare in developing countries such as Antigua and Barbuda. Though this gap is yet to be filled despite the selfless work being poured into the system by our doctors, nurses, teachers, counselors, therapists and advocates, there are solutions students can adopt to self-soothe and succeed.

Study

Study ahead of time. Don't fall into the temptation to procrastinate. Studying improves readiness for the exam and increases confidence in your ability.

Excercise

Going to the gym helps some, while walking and jogging help others, as do active sports. Keeping active helps physical fitness, provides social activity, and develops discipline.

Diet

Make sure to eat balanced meals regularly. Study snacks are fun, but ensure you get sufficient proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and other nutrients. It is even encouraged to take multivitamins and other supplements—after consulting a doctor—to replenish what is lost during this time of elevated mental activity.

Hobbies

Sports may be a hobby for some. It is good to take a break and get your mind off studying to give your brain a chance to retain the information. Go to the beach, listen to music, or paint if those are things you enjoy. This will promote balance between study and leisure.

Rest

Rest is crucial. The adult body needs at least 7-8 hours of sleep to function normally. It can be a university culture to stay up and burn the midnight oil. However, sleeping heals the brain and the body. It's always a good idea to get adequate rest the night before an exam. That's why it's important to give yourself enough time to study.

About the writer: WISH Communications Coordinator Makeida Antonio is a graduate of the University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus with a Bachelor in Management with Psychology. She is a locally-based media worker and is a former National Youth Ambassador for the Ministry of Social Transformation.