Help, it’s exam time: 7 smart tips to stay mentally alert

Exam time? These 7 tips will help you through the stress.

Those final weeks before exams often feel like an emotional rollercoaster. Deadlines piling up, stress rising, FOMO creeping in, pressure building — and still, you’re expected to just be yourself. But you’re not alone in this. And you don’t have to handle it all by yourself. This blog doesn’t offer a quick fix or miracle cure, but it does share 7 gentle nudges to help you stay mentally resilient during exam time.

1. Not learning is not an option. But neither is overlearning.

Your brain isn’t built to run nonstop, it needs moments to process everything you take in. So treat breaks like promises to yourself. You don’t have to spend hours scrolling TikTok; even a short walk, sketch, or a bit of music can refresh your mind. And remember: doing nothing isn’t lazy, it’s recharging.

2. Sleep is not a luxury

Pulling an all-nighter before a test? Bad idea. Sleep is just as important as studying — maybe even more. While you sleep, your brain processes what you’ve learned and resets your emotions. The result: more focus, less panic.

3. You don’t have to do it perfectly

Nobody manages to do everything, and that’s perfectly fine. Try not to set the bar so high that you can’t clear it yourself. Ask yourself: what’s the smallest thing I can do today that will make me feel at peace? Sometimes that’s reading one chapter. Sometimes it’s simply just taking a breath.

4. Share your stress (instead of your summary)

One piece of advice you won’t read in any textbook: talking really helps. Whether you’re feeling stressed, unsure, or afraid you’ll mess things up, speak it out loud to someone you trust. Maybe that’s a friend, maybe an @ease peer. Sharing your story can bring real relief.

5. Give your head room for fun things too

It’s exam season, yes, but you are so much more than your exams. Make room for something that makes you happy: an hour of gaming, a walk with a friend, or an episode of your favorite show. Stepping away from your books isn’t lost time, it’s caring for your mental health.

6. Everyone pretends everything is fine. But it’s not always that way.

What you see of others is just the surface — their stories, their laughter, their “I didn’t study and still understood everything.” But don’t be fooled. Many young people struggle with worry, self-doubt, and performance pressure — even if they hide it well. Don’t compare your behind-the-scenes to someone else’s highlight reel.

7. You will get there (even if it doesn’t feel like it yet)

Imagine this: you’re on a bike, climbing a hill. Your chain creaks, the wind blows, you doubt you’ll make it. But you keep pedaling. That’s what you’re doing now. And even though you can’t see the summit yet, you’ll get there—at your own pace.

Do you want to share your stress with someone?

At @ease, you can talk freely and anonymously with someone your own age. Whether you’re feeling stressed, having trouble sleeping, or just need to share what’s on your mind — we’ll listen. With care, without judgment. You’re welcome to drop in or chat with us online. Find our locations and opening hours here.