Summarize strategies for coping with stress, and apply each strategy to coping with the stress of an upcoming exam.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

A good answer would include the following key points:
- Seek control of situations that produce stress. When an upcoming exam is first announced, prepare a study plan to effectively manage time.
- Redefine a perceived "threat" as a "challenge." Exams are just that; examinations of one's knowledge. See the test as an opportunity to display talents.
- Take advantage of family, friends, and telephone hotlines, all part of a social support system. Forming a study group might be helpful.
- Develop relaxation techniques to reduce physiological arousal. An hour of studying followed by 15 minutes of meditation makes for a solid plan.
- Maintain a healthful lifestyle through good nutrition, exercise, adequate sleep, and avoiding or reducing use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. Slamming down caffeinated drinks to stay awake while studying for 26 hours straight is a bad idea.
- Remember that stress is a natural part of life, can keep life interesting, and can be a gratifying experience when viewed in the proper perspective. Do you want to be in college? If so, there will be exams. It's part of the this experience that presumably you want to have.