Exam related stress is not an uncommon phenomenon amongst young people in the run up to the hectic period of exams, with all of the pressures which they entail. However, aside from this common denominator, the way in which students are affected by exams differs greatly; it would be naïve to presume that exam stress is a “one size fits all” scenario.

Due to the pressures of revision and last-minute cramming, many students experience a sense of helplessness, as though they are drowning in a sea of unfinished work and deadlines. Even those who appear to be collected may have erected a confident façade to conceal their anxiety; they are merely treading water. Some students will struggle to rise above the tide of expectations set upon them by teachers and parents, not wanting to disappoint, yet struggling to stay afloat.

Other students find that during this period, the constraints of the curriculum prevent them from pursuing extra-curricular interests. It is impossible to dive deep whilst in shallow waters; the development of the whole person must be temporarily put on hold while exams take precedence. This may result in boredom or frustration, leading to disillusionment with the school system and a reduced desire to succeed.

It is imperative to achieve a good work-life balance throughout this tenuous period. The only real incentive for students is the prospect of the long summer holidays at the end of the sea of pressure within which all students are inadvertently floating.