Emotions can significantly influence how you absorb information (or don’t as the case may be). It can be problematic when it comes to exams and assignments, which can hinder your progress.
Research has shown that your brain stops forming new connections under stress, meaning you cannot retain or absorb information. So that last-minute cram reading before an exam? Not helpful in the slightest!
So how can you learn to handle your emotions? Let’s consider a few options.
1. Identify the Cause
Identifying the source of your anxiety makes it easier to manage. If you are struggling with this, then try keeping a daily journal documenting thoughts and feelings.
This can help identify the source as well as how you are managing or not managing it. In addition, this will help identify unhealthy patterns that may trigger the emotions, such as lack of sleep, unhealthy eating, or drinking too much caffeine or alcohol.
2. Manage Your Anxiety
Once you have the source, management is the next step. There are several options available, and you will need to take some time to figure out which is best for you – unfortunately, there is no one size fits all solution.
Mindfulness is one way to help handle your emotions. It involves being aware of one’s thoughts and emotions as they arise, and research suggests it can greatly reduce anxiety and stress.
Planning and organization can help you feel less anxious about things. Having a plan can help alleviate anxiety and stress caused by feeling helpless or unprepared.
Trying to distance yourself from the situation, and view it as an outsider or third party is another well-researched technique. When you remove “you” from the equation, you can focus on what happened instead of being overwhelmed by how you feel.
3. Prioritise Health and Downtime
“If you don’t make time for your wellness, you’ll be forced to make time for your illness.”
Whether you have heard it before or not, this quote is everything you need to know. Make sure you take care of your physical health and prioritise downtime otherwise this will take its toll on your emotional well-being.
Always remember, if you are struggling to handle your emotions even after trying some coping techniques, it may be time to seek professional help.
For more help and information for students, please stay tuned to our blog.