Let's talk a bit about stress. Stress during CA exams is normal, given the uncertain and difficult nature of the whole examination process. But do students really know why they are stressed? Let’s find out…
The Medical Encyclopedia defines "stress" as a feeling of emotion or physical tension. it can come from any event or thought which makes you feel angry, irritated, frustrated, or nervous. In short, stress is the body's response to a challenge.
How do you know you are stressed?
How does a CA student know he is stressed? Stress has many symptoms. Let's have a look:
Low energy
Headache
Aches, pains, and tense muscles
Rapid breathing and heartbeat
Cold or sweaty hands and/or feet
Shaking and nervousness
Loss of interest
Constant worrying
Inability to focus
Insomnia
Changes in appetite
Increased use of alcohol or cigarettes or coffee
There could be many more symptoms depending on person to person. But most of these symptoms are either ignored or not even identified. This is where a CA student needs to be more conscious.
Reasons for stress
The reasons for stress also need to be identified, because only then can you work towards reducing stress. Let's discuss some most common reasons for stress in CA students:
Lack of proper preparation
Fear of failure in exams
Not being serious in studies
Not having a solid plan of study or a timetable
Expectation of near and dear ones
Fear of being judged by others
Fear of missing out (FOMO)
Lack of time management
Lack of sleep
Mental exhaustion
Peer pressure
Again, the list can go on. But the point is to identify the reasons quickly and work towards minimizing stress.
Since the issue of stress and how to minimize stress requires elaborate discussion, it is best that I discuss the ways to reduce stress in my next post. Till then, keep reading and sharing knowledge:)
PS: Do not forget to send this post to anyone whom you feel might be in need of some advice on managing stress. Thanks for reading!