Anxiety in Kids
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READ MEHelping Kids Cope With Exam Stress
Exam stress can be really challenging, not only for kids but those who live with them!
When your child faces exams (often scheduled close together), they are under incredible pressure.
They’ll need your understanding and support.
When dealing with exam stress, consider:
- The words 'pressure' and 'stress' are used interchangeably, but are actually quite different
- Pressure can be challenging, but positive and motivating overall
- Stress feels negative and can get in the way of performing well
- Each child responds differently to exam stress and pressure
What is exam stress? What causes it?
Stress is a negative reaction to excessive pressure or other demands. Exam stress can be caused by:
- Fear of ‘failure’
- Pessimism and thinking the worst
- Unrealistic expectations
- Feeling unprepared
- Ending or starting a new school year or term
- Performance anxiety
“Exams can be a challenging part of your child’s life. If they are struggling it can help to talk to a counsellor about what you can do as a parent”
– Belle, Parentline Counsellor
What to expect when exam stress hits
Your child may openly express how stressed they’re feeling. Or they may hold it in and try to cope on their own. These are some signs they may be under stress:
Skin breakouts
Losing touch with friends
Racing heart and sweating
Difficulty making decisions
Mild chest tightness or pain
Nausea or minor stomach upsets
Blaming others, anger or frustration
Increased smoking, drinking or drug use
Problems going to sleep or waking up
Teeth grinding, nail biting and fidgeting
Feeling or thinking negatively about the future
Feeling cranky and irritable (increased yelling, crying, swearing, lashing out)
How can kids manage their exam stress?
One of the challenges as a parent is that exams are something your child has to do on their own. But you can support them by trying the following:
- Have realistic expectations and don't push them too hard
- Be constructive and positive
- Encourage good sleep patterns and eating habits
- Provide a quiet space for them to study and prepare
- Teach them the importance of study breaks
- Encourage them to ask the teacher questions if they’re unsure
- Help them know what to expect on the day of the exam
- Help them be on time for the exam or arrive early
- After the exam, listen to their concerns and avoid criticising them
Parenting your child while they are going through exams can be tough
But support is always available for you and your family.
Your child may benefit from letting out their stress by talking with a Counsellor - encourage them to call Kids Helpline.
If exam stress is paralysing your child, you can seek further help through your local doctor or school counsellor.
If you need some extra support to help your child manage their exam stress, give us a call on 1300 30 1300 (QLD & NT) and speak to one of our trained counsellors.
Not living in QLD or NT? Check out this list of Parentline counselling services in each State and Territory.
This content was last reviewed 10/05/2018
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