The examination season is here and students are busy preparing to test the knowledge they acquired over the past several months. It's time when everyone feels the stress – students as well as parents. However, there is no need to fear exams. Here are some tips to tackle any anxieties in this regard:
Tips for students
» Drink enough water, whether at home or school. Water has a major role in supplying energy to the body. The body needs an intake of at least two litres of water a day.
» Never avoid breakfast. Also ensure that it is taken at a regular hour. During the exam time, make a habit of having breakfast that is balanced – easily digestible and having plenty of fibres.
» Never engage in over-eating, which may cause fatigue and drowsiness. It is better to have food prepared at home. Totally avoid food that has become cold.
» Do not indulge in junk food. Prefer fruits, nuts and yogurt instead. If feeling hungry between meals, eat fruits you like or dry fruits like almond or walnut.
» Excess amount of coffee, which contains caffeine, will affect sleep.
» Choose food items that are too rich in protein. Eating fish or egg along with rice is beneficial.
» Supper should be taken at least three hours before going to bed. This is necessary for proper digestion and a good sleep.
Tips for parents
» Students would be feeling stressful during the time of exams and parents need to ensure that they do not add to the mental stress of their children. Parents have to take suitable measures in this regard on their own.
» When their children prepare for exams, parents should find ways to reduce anxiety of their wards. Sharing jokes or making the favourite dishes of the youngsters would help
» Try to understand your kids better. When exams approach, check which subjects need more attention. Spend more time with children and learn about their worries and difficulties.
» Find out if your kids are facing mental tension. Signs of this condition include excessive sweating, avoiding food, visiting the wash room often and sleeplessness. In case such behavior is shown, speak to the child patiently, in a calm manner. There is, in fact, no problem that cannot be solved through an open and frank discussion.
» The pressure felt by parents and their hopes and ambitions should never affect children. Parents need to realize that there are several ways by which success could be achieved in life. The bottom line is, for parents their child should be their priority, not exams.
(Information provided by: Sherin Thomas, Clinical Nutritionist, Aster MIMS, Kozhikode; KK Sathyapalan, Counsellor, Insight Counselling and Guidance Centre)
