Tips for Students & Their Parents to Use as Standardized Testing Begins
Don’t over schedule. If you’re feeling stretched, consider cutting out an activity or two; prioritize the actitivities that are most important to you.
Be realistic. Don’t try to be perfect: nobody is. If you find yourself struggling with something, ask for help. Remember, expecting others to be perfect can add to your stress level - as well as someone else’s stress level.
Sleep well. Getting enough sleep helps keep your body and mind in top shape, making you better equipped to deal with stressors.
Learn to relax. The body’s natural medicine to stress is relaxation response. Practice abdominal breathing and muscle relaxation techniques to help you keep calm. Make time to engage in pleasureable activities.
Treat your body well. Experts agree that getting regular exercise helps people manage stress. Eat well to help your body get the right fuel to function at its best.
Watch what you’re thinking. Your outlook, attitude, and thoughts influence the way you see things. A healthy does of optimism can help you turn a stressful situation around.
Solve the little problems. Avoiding everyday dilemmas can leave you feeling like you have little control, which can contribute to stress. Feeling capable of solving little problems builds confidence to move on to life’s bigger challenges — and this confidence can serve you well during moments of stress.