17 Tried And Tested Self-Care Tips To Keep You Sane During Exams

Because your wellbeing is more important than your ATAR.

1. Start your study day by writing down three things you're grateful for.

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This sounds corny, but starting your day by practicing some gratitude will help put your mind in a positive space — as well as reminding you how much you've got going for you outside of exams.

2. Make sure you're getting enough sleep.

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While it's tempting to stay up late cramming — especially if you're feeling the pressure during this stressful time — studying and taking exams are actually strenuous activities. The best way to recover, of course, is to rest.

Try to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. And try to keep the times you go to and get out of bed consistent.

3. And if you're having trouble falling asleep, do some light stretching and breathing exercises before bed.

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Winding down after a long day of studying can be tough. To help yourself transition from work mode into sleep mode, do some light stretching and deep breathing exercises.

4. Study at a desk...not on your bed.

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I remember losing sleep during the HSC – partially because I was nervous, but mostly because I was studying on my bed and couldn't switch off.

Let your desk be your study area, and your bed be your ~oasis~.

5. Verbally congratulate yourself for every study activity that you complete.

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I know this sounds new age-y, but trust me, this works. After every study activity you complete, tell yourself how proud you are for smashing that task. Better yet, smile while you're saying it or give yourself a high five.

You might feel silly at first, but positive self-talk will motivate you to keep studying, as well as keep your stress levels at bay.

6. Eat nutritious food to nourish your body and mind.

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It's tempting to pump your body full of sugar and junk food to give you the energy (and emotional support) to push through with your studying. However, this stuff can make it harder to concentrate for long periods of time, as well as get a good night's sleep. Having a wholesome, nutritious diet will give your mind and body the best fuel to make it through exam season.

7. Limit the amount of caffeine you're getting.

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Coffee and energy drinks are fine here and there...but maybe re-think the four-a-day habit. Caffeine might keep you buzzed, but it can also make you feel more stressed.

8. And if you're breaking the habit, sip on herbal tea or hot water instead.

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For some people, sipping on a coffee or an energy drink is a way to keep their bodies busy while studying, as opposed to actually giving them energy. Sometimes it's simply that hot drinks are comforting.

Switching out these drinks with herbal tea — or better still, hot water — will still give you a warm hug without the negative impacts of caffeine.

9. Allocate time to do some exercise.

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Exercise helps release endorphins, which means it's as good for your mind as it is for your body. If you're feeling a bit off, moving your body is a great way to get your spirits back up. It'll also help you sleep better.

Even though it's tempting to put your life on hold during your exams, playing sport and being active is something you should definitely keep up.

10. And get some vitamin D every day.

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Getting outside and soaking up a healthy amount of sunshine everyday is a must for everybody, but can be especially helpful during periods of great stress.

Vitamin D is a pro-hormone that is beneficial for your bones, immune system and other bodily functions — but it also just makes you feel happier.

11. Consider limiting your time on social media.

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Talking to friends if you're feeling overwhelmed is a great strategy for looking after your mental health. However, sometimes it can also be a means of procrastination.

If you're worried about your levels of focus and productivity, it might be best to have a break from social media. If you need an extra hand, try using social media blocking apps like Offtime or FocusMe.

12. And if you're feeling edgy or distracted, leave your phone in another room.

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Speaking of distractions, your phone is a massive one. If I ever need to do get anything done, I leave my phone in the other room and don't collect it until I'm done. It's hugely helpful.

13. Reach out to your support system if you're feeling overwhelmed.

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It's definitely normal to feel anxious, stressed or outright overwhelmed during your exams. It's also common to feel down, depressed or any other kind of way.

If you are experiencing worsening mental health symptoms during your year 12 exams, reach out to friends, family members or teachers for help. Lifeline is also a great resource to use if you don't feel comfortable talking to people that you know.

14. Give yourself study breaks to do things you actually enjoy.

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Whether it's drawing, playing a video game or going to a cafe with a friend, make sure you keep doing fun things during your exam period. It'll keep your stress levels at bay.

15. Spend some time meditating.

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Year 12 exams can often rattle even the calmest of us all, which means it's the ideal time to ease yourself into meditation. If you need a bit of help, try some meditation apps like Headspace or Calm.

16. Have a post-exam celebration planned to look forward to.

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Whether it's a pamper day with your girlfriends or a nice dinner with your family, planning an end-of-exam celebration will act as the light at the end of the exam tunnel.

17. And most importantly, remember that your exam results don't define how talented and valuable you are.

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I know it seems like your ATAR is the single most important thing in the world right now, and while you should definitely try your best, it doesn't measure how much you're actually worth as a person.

Having empathy, being kind, helping others, developing your own unique talents and passions — these are all far more important to being a good person and having a fulfilling life.

GOOD LUCK YEAR 12! ❤️❤️❤️