How to know Its STRESS!

It changes how your body works and puts your mind into different moods. When you're getting a bit stressed about an exam - it just means that you really care about the result you will get. That can be a good thing if it pushes you into working extra hard as you try to get a good score. But it can be bad if you get too worried and the effects of the stress stop you doing well. Stress is natural part of being human. It's your body responding to changes in the world around you.
You could be showing these signs when you're stressed:

• feeling tired
• ache all over
• cry and feel sad
• have panic attacks
• have broken sleep
• suffer from stomach upsets
• have itchy skin rashes
• more likely to get colds and 'flu

How to beat the monster?

1. Get plenty of sleep
Try to keep your sleep routine as regular as possible

2. Take a break
This is really important, you should give yourself plenty of short breaks as you revise, this keeps you fresher for longer, so you will learn more.

3. Time for yourself
Try to leave enough time in your revision for some fun. You will need to put your books down and do something you enjoy for a while if you want to stay in a good mood.

4. Be realistic
Don't try to do too much work each day. If you overdo it you won't take in the facts you're revising.

5. Eat properly
Make sure your diet includes plenty of fruit and veg. Drink juice or water, avoid too much tea or coffee.

6. Get some exercise
It's a fantastic stress buster. Go running, skateboarding, play a sport, or just take a walk around the block. You will feel more relaxed. If you're not sleeping very well exercise can make a real difference.

7. Be positive
Don't beat yourself up about things, instead be nice to yourself. Make a quick list of five things you've done that you are proud of. This will put you in a good mood and you will learn more.

8. Chill out
If you are starting to lose it, and feel that the studying is getting on top of you - take a bit of time to:

• Breathe deeply.
• Tell yourself how well you are doing.
• Remind yourself that everything is going to turn out alright.
• Stand up straight and smile, you will feel a bit better straight away.