Exam stress : understanding and supporting your children
9 min read
Louise halimi
Anxiety
CBT
Parenting
Well-being
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Exams and other significant milestones, whether a school test, a final exam, or a sports competition, can trigger intense stress in many children and young adults. This stress, while a normal response to situations perceived as high stakes, can take over their daily lives, affecting both their physical and mental well-being. It is crucial to listen, help them understand the causes, manage the symptoms, and identify solutions to overcome it.
Exam stress
Exam stress is an emotional and physiological reaction to a situation perceived as demanding or threatening. This reaction is heightened when the child or young adult places great importance on success or fears failure. While this natural mechanism prepares the body for exceptional effort, it can sometimes become excessive and counterproductive.
This type of stress can appear at any age, even in elementary school, particularly in perfectionist children or those highly attuned to adult expectations (parents, teachers, coaches). It also affects teenagers and young adults in academic (exams, entrance tests) or athletic contexts, where social and personal pressures are often intensified.
Symptoms
Stress manifests in various ways, including physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Here are the main signs to watch for :
Physical symptoms
- Stomach aches or nausea, sometimes leading to vomiting.
- Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking).
- Chronic fatigue caused by ongoing tension.
- Nervous tics or compulsive behaviors (nail-biting, lip-biting).
- Palpitations, trembling, or sensations of heat.
Emotional symptoms
- Increased irritability or nervousness.
- Episodes of crying or anxiety attacks.
- Lack of self-confidence and fear of disappointing others.
Behavioral symptoms
- Procrastination or avoidance due to fear of failure.
- Social withdrawal or loss of interest in enjoyable activities.
- Avoidance behaviors, such as feigning illness to avoid the challenge.
When these signs are intense or recurrent, they may indicate a deeper issue, such as generalized anxiety disorder. If you are unsure, consult your doctor to assess the situation and consider therapeutic solutions if necessary.
What causes exam stress ?
Exam stress arises from a combination of internal and external factors:
Internal factors
- Perfectionist personality: Some children hold very high expectations for themselves, viewing every challenge as a critical test.
- Lack of self-confidence: Low self-esteem can amplify the fear of failure.
- Emotional sensitivity: Some children experience emotions more intensely.
External factors
- Parental pressure: High expectations or frequent comparisons to other children can increase stress.
- Competitive school environment: Teacher comments, rankings, or rewards for top...