TeenHelp - I'm stressed about school

I'm sorry that you're struggling with school right now. It doesn't mean you're a failure or a disappointment. School can be super hard, and it's valid to feel stressed when exams are coming up. Just try your best. Sometimes we know more than we give ourselves credit for. You might sit down and look at the test, and then some of the information comes back to you. Or, you don't think you know it but you end up with the right answer anyway.

Do you think your parents or a friend can help you study? They can look at your notes and quiz you. That's what I used to do. I know you said you don't have time but it can even be fifteen minutes here and there, versus nothing at all. Go over the things you're less confident with to start.

Try to get a good night's sleep the night before your exams and eat a good breakfast so your body is rested and fueled. It helps you focus a little more when you have a little more energy and your stomach isn't growling. You can also practice breathing exercises while you're taking the exams to calm down a little. I like box breathing. Breathe in for four seconds, hold for four seconds, breathe out for four seconds, and hold for four seconds. There are other breathing exercises you can do as well, that's just one example.

I hope things work out for you!

Take care,
Dez