Feeling Overwhelmed or Frustrated During Exams?

Feeling Overwhelmed or Frustrated During Exams? You’re Not Alone.

We’ve all been there—those moments during exams when frustration, stress, and overwhelm hit hard. It’s common to turn to venting as a way to release those intense feelings. But did you know that venting may not actually be the best way to calm down?

A study published in Clinical Psychology Review found that while venting might offer temporary relief, it’s not the most effective way to reduce anger. So, what can you do instead?

Here are some strategies that may help you manage stress and frustration during this exam period:

1. Meditate
Meditation is a great way to calm the mind. Check out the SHW event schedule for guided meditation sessions with counsellor Holly Maki (Thunder Bay Campus) or you can start with guided sessions using free apps like Insight Timer, or just find a quiet moment to center yourself during study breaks.

3. Get Moving
Exercise is one of the best ways to reduce stress and improve your mood. It doesn’t have to be time-intensive—even just a quick 10-minute burst of exercise, like a walk or a few bodyweight exercises, can help release tension and improve focus.

4. Try Breathing Exercises
Breathing exercises are a quick and effective way to calm your body and mind. Try techniques like box breathing or the 4-7-8 method to reduce stress anytime, anywhere.

5. Engage in Progressive Muscle Relaxation
This technique helps release tension in your body by tensing and relaxing muscle groups. Start from your feet and work your way up, focusing on one area at a time to relieve stress.

You don’t have to navigate the stress of exams alone, check in with the WellU Key to see all the supports and services available to you as a Lakehead student. Take care of yourself—remember, your well-being matters, even in the busiest times.

-Lindsey Wachter, R. Kin, Health Promoter