Post exam blues
December 16, 2024
I recently finished my exams, and while I’m excited to take a long-awaited break, I can’t help but feel a bit sad. A part of me keeps thinking back to my exams and essays, feeling nervous as I wait for my final assessments to be graded. There are no more tests or deadlines for the next three weeks, yet here I am, wondering why I still feel stuck. I like to think of this as post-exam blues.
What are post-exam blues?
Post-exam blues often come with symptoms such as a sense of loss, low self-esteem, decreased motivation, and feelings of emptiness. At university, the pressure to perform well during exams can lead us to neglect our basic needs. During this stressful period, it’s common to sacrifice proper nutrition and sleep, which can negatively impact overall brain function. I’ll admit that during my exam weeks, I neglected self-care, so I didn’t feel like myself. Prioritizing your needs during this time is challenging, but it’s essential. If you’re feeling off after exams, your body is likely signalling the need for recovery after such an intense period. Here’s a guide on overcoming these feelings and getting back on track.
How to Cope with Exam Blues
- Recognize your Feelings: Feeling sad, overwhelmed, or stuck after a long and exhausting week is natural. These feelings reflect your effort and dedication to achieving your goals. Take pride in your accomplishments, but don’t stop processing and expressing your emotions.
- Take a Break: Relax! Use your time to do activities like reading, exercising, and reconnecting with friends. Here’s your chance to take that long-awaited break guilt-free!
- Set Goals: If you lack motivation during this period, try setting small goals during your day. This can include journaling, cooking or baking, or exploring a new hobby.
- Focus on the Present: It’s natural to dwell on your exams or grades, but try to shift your attention to the present moment. Take this time to relax and recharge—you’ve earned it.
- Look Ahead: Take a moment to think about what lies ahead, whether preparing for the next semester (just kidding—take a break!) or focusing on personal growth. Do what feels right for you and sets you up for success in the future.
Post-exam blues might feel difficult but recognize that this period is temporary. So use your time to focus on yourself, rest, recharge, and start to look forward to what's ahead. Please be gentle with yourself; you’ve done a great job. You deserve to relax without any guilt, so take it one day at a time. Good luck!