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Photo: K. R. Deepak

Last minute tension Students may lose focus and exhaust themselves studying

Though temporary, stress of this kind, commonly known as ‘feel it right now’ acute stress can turn to the more subtle chronic type with successive examinations performed under pressure. Peer pressure and post-exam stress analysis, in more serious terms, can destabilise memory and concentration and weaken the immune system, thereby limiting its ability to fight off even the harmless of illness, warn experts.

The health experts say the stress (S) factor often goes unnoticed because the damage done often gets blamed on other diseases and conditions. Apart from exerting mental pressure and psychological changes, physically, a child can experience heart pounding, headaches, sweaty palms, indigestion, sleeplessness, and tight stomach under extreme circumstances—things likely to prevent one from giving the best shot. Researchers at Michigan State University say that exam pressure is more likely to impair the performance of good students than average ones by affecting their strong short-term or working memory that enables them to process numbers and thoughts while focusing on a problem.

While high expectations prevent some students from giving it their best, some may be able to handle pressure; many others lose focus and exhaust themselves studying. So how does one cope? Counsellors suggest early preparation / mock tests, time management/breaks and healthy lifestyle to handle students fear to ensure studies do not pile up at the end moment and cause undue havoc.

Examination phobia catches children quick and last minutes effort to cram for exams are a common sight witnessed in every household with bigger dreams.

Stress and anxiety disturbs the delicate biochemical balance in the body and is known to cause deficiency in certain proteins and vitamins like A, C and K. Wrong diet can affect the effectiveness of their study regardless of whether the students are ‘good or bad’. Edibles from caffeine to sugar to proteins are touted to help boost concentration.

Dr. S. Shanmukhi, Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Department of Neurology, NIMS, insists students should ensure they get enough sleep, stay hydrated, forgo excessive amounts of caffeine, take regular breaks and maintain a study routine to stay calm and achieve their best results.

The brain being a hungry organ needs fuel and nutrients particularly during exam times when students are putting additional physical and mental stress on themselves.

Hence, it becomes important to consume vitamin E for healthy blood flow, yoghurt for good bacteria and iodine for the brain, citrus fruits to build immunity, baked beans for building proteins and fresh vegetables along with enough water to keep the brain hydrated.

Simple breathing exercises and meditation such as vipassana can also benefit the body and mind by improving concentration, memory, self-confidence and above all a healthy and pure mind.

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