As most of you (should have) already noticed, it’s summative season! Hooray! I imagine that most of you are under quite some stress, and what does stress bring along for the ride? Anxiety! I know, it’s the worst feeling in the world. Luckily, as an experienced and trained anxiety professional, I can help, or at least try to! Keep in mind that you don’t only have to refer to these during summatives, these tips can be used for whenever you have anxiety, even (especially) if it isn’t school related. So, without further a due, here are some tips for dealing with anxiety and how to overcome it:

1. Breathe

Seriously, it may sound cheesy, but just do it. Take a GIANT breath in, hold it and let it go. Try exhaling really slowly, but don’t sigh. Sighing will make it worse. Do this as many times as you need to, as long as you always feel better after each one.

2. Get out more and try eating healthier

Trust me, eating that chocolate bar you’ve been eyeing for the past ten minutes is not going to do you any good. Not only do greasy, sugary foods make you feel worse, they don’t even do anything for you. When I’m really anxious, like before a test, I have knots in my stomach. Imagine eating oily junk food with all those evil butterflies floating around in there. It’ll make it a hundred times worse and you may even end up puking in your bathroom.

3. Stop what you’re doing and distract yourself

Whether by reading a book, watching your favorite movie or even just hanging out with friends, find a way to escape and take your mind off things. Don’t focus too much on your problems while you’re doing so, just relax and have fun. You can deal with those other bridges when you get to them, so just loosen up a little. Letting go for a few hours or so is really one of the biggest tips I have, so trust me on this.

4. Trust yourself

Be confident in yourself. The anxiety you’re inducing is your own, you are the one who is letting it get to you. You need to stop doubting your abilities and learn that you can’t be perfect. There will be a few bumps along the road for whatever you’re experiencing (friendships, academics, etc…), just know that you choose your destiny. The anxiety will pass and it’ll be over– it’s up to you if it turns out having a happy ending.

5. Talk to someone

Grab a close friend or a family member and tell them what’s on your mind. Letting them know what’s bothering you and just saying everything out loud will really help you feel more relieved. Plus, maybe they have some good advice for what you’re dealing with (or maybe even some better advice for dealing with anxiety).

6. Face the source of the anxiety

Seriously, it may be tough, but confront whatever is causing your anxiety. If you’re fighting with a friend or loved one, talk to them about it. It’s much healthier. If you’re worried about a test, stop worrying and start studying. If you study as hard as you can, you’ll be confident enough to do the test and not freak out the night before. Stop beating around the bush, it’s what causes the anxiety.

I hope these tips were helpful and that they somehow help you get through the anxious month of May. Remember, you can overcome your anxiety. Thanks for reading!