Exam De-Stress
January exams season is here, and we want to make sure you have the tools and resources you need to complete your assessments with confidence.
Everybody reacts differently to exams, but whether you thrive under the pressure or dread it, we’ve got your back. Take a look at our simple tips for revision and study to keep you on track.
Most importantly, although it can feel all consuming, your exam performance and your grades do not define you. If you are struggling, please do reach out for help.
Stay hydrated, keep talking to friends and family, and we wish you the best of luck in your assessments!
What's On
Look out for Guild staff giving out free hot drinks near exam locations this week! Follow us on Instagram @exeterguild to find out where we’ll be each day.
Music Therapy for Exam Stress
Blogs
Emma's Favourite Places to Study Off Campus
Top Techniques for Exam Season
Exam Wellbeing
Resources
StudyZone have guides including practical guidance and revision strategies.
Libguides also have guidance on how to reference.
You can see past exam papers for courses and modules here.
Make sure you take a look at our tips for referencing for academic success.
Videos
Mindfulness Exercises
Ways to de-stress
You know best what works for you when you need to de-stress, but here are some suggestions from our Officer team and staff on what they like to do:
“I really enjoy playing video games or reading a book” – Jack
“I try to practice some good easy routines, like getting some air or going for a walk (even just standing outside your front door to get some fresh air), having a peppermint tea before bed, and if I'm feeling really overwhelmed, I do some rounds of box breathing” – Lily
"When I need to de-stress, I enjoy doing some simple crafts like cross stitch or colouring to focus my mind on something different. I also find talking through my thoughts to someone else very helpful - if you want to talk confidentially, Exeter Student Nightline are available 8pm-8am every night of term." - Izzie
"I like to go for a gentle jog in nature and re-watch one of my favourite tv shows which helps me switch off my mind which is crucial when you're taking on a lot of new information" - Emma
Meditations & Breathing Exercises
By simply focusing on nothing but breathing in and out for one minute you can slow down your heart rate calming your nerves and overworked mind.
You can practice this sitting or standing, eyes open or closed or even as you’re walking in to the exam hall.
Here’s how in 4 easy steps:
Inhale through your nose gently for two seconds.
Hold your breath in for one second.
Breathe out through your mouth slowly for four seconds.
Repeat for one minute (or longer if you like) and you should feel a difference in your mood!
If the 2-1-4 count feels too short, try to lengthen your breaths slightly. As long as you breathe out longer than you breathe in, you’ll feel the calming benefit.
10-minute meditation to reframe stress
Racing thoughts while trying to sleep?
Breathing through exams
Need Support?
Everyone has mental health, and help is available for you if you are struggling.
University Wellbeing Urgent Support
Here you can find details on urgent support, out of hours support and support within the University.
First Response is available seven days a week, 365 days a year and is an urgent mental health service for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis or if you have concerns about someone’s mental wellbeing.
Call 0808 196 8708 to talk to a mental health practitioner who can help you or refer you to other services which can help.
Papyrus provide confidential help and advice around mental health and suicide to young people and anyone worried about a young person.
Their opening hours are 9am – 12am (midnight) every day, including weekends and bank holidays.
Call: 0800 068 41 41 Text: 07860 039 967 Email: pat@papyrus-uk.org
The Moorings @ Devon offers out-of-hours mental health support to anyone aged over 18 in the Devon area.
They offer support from 10am - midnight, Mon-Fri, and 12 noon - midnight, Sat and Sun.
Tel: 07990 790 920 Email: devonexeter.mhm@nhs.net
Samaritans provide a 24/7 confidential listening and support service where you are able to talk through your troubles and concerns in a safe and non-judgmental space.
Call: 116 123 Email: jo@samaritans.org
Mitigation
For exam mitigation, you will need to apply for evidence-based mitigation. You can find out more information and the forms you will need to fill in here. Here is a list of appropriate examples of evidence for mitigation.