Test Anxiety

Being anxious for tests is something that most people struggle with. Worrying about failure, or studying before a test can be a very stressful time in a person’s life. Perhaps your mind goes blank when you stare at the test paper in front of you, or your stomach begins to churn from anxiety. Being nervous before a test is normal, but some students might find it so debilitating that they can’t focus. Their results might not be a reflection of their true ability or understand because anxiety and nerves get in the way.

What are the symptoms of test anxiety?

Those with test anxiety might suffer from racing thoughts
They might not be able to concentrate
Racing heart
Nausea
Feelings of dread
Headaches
Panic attacks

Helplessness
Anger
Disappointment
In some severe cases, people might drop out of school to avoid the feelings of anxiety
Sence of being a failure
Low self-esteem
Substance abuse

Test anxiety is almost a type of performance anxiety. Even if you have worked hard on studying for weeks or months, having test anxiety could cloud and derail all your hard work.

What are the symptoms of test anxiety?

There are a few different factors that come into play with test anxiety. It could be a combination of things that makes people suffer from severe anxiety during tests but the following are some of the main causes of test anxiety.

Being afraid of failure is a major cause of test anxiety. An individual might be so afraid of failure, that they put a lot of pressure on themselves. Passing the test might be tied in with their self worth, and this can cause severe anxiety.

A history of failing tests can also cause test anxiety. Even if you studied well, you might have been so anxious that you couldn’t remember what you studied and failed your test. This could lead to a cycle of fear and even more anxiety every time you write a test.

Being unprepared for a test can also cause test anxiety. If you haven’t studied well you might also be extremely anxious for your test.

There are a few things that you can do to help you feel calmer for a test.

Study well and be prepared
Get enough sleep
Take deep breaths
Think positively about yourself, fight negative thinking
Don’t expect perfection
Sometimes medication might be prescribed by a psychiatrist

If test anxiety has become debilitating and is affecting your life, please contact us today. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has been shown to be really helpful for those who are suffering from test anxiety. Remember test anxiety can be treated. You can get help and feel confident when writing tests. The Anxiety Disorders Clinic would love to help you find peace an inner calm.