How can acute anxiety due to fear of exams be managed?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have acute anxiety symptoms due to my fear of exams. Currently very underprepared, it is impossible to pass but still my parents are stressing me to give exams even when they know I fear underperformance and not knowing something on an exam. At this stage, I cannot even read words properly in books because of anxiety, short breath and really fast heartbeat. My parents are angry with me on my behavior. I myself feel guilty because I could not study even in given time even after knowing the fact. It is like something took over my head. Whatever I plan for I just could not do it. All the lists. All are incomplete. I do not understand the reason for this. My mind is extremely imaginative and is always wandering instead of doing what should be done. Please help me, since I am a student who would have to give exams for years and years this problem aggravates more and more every time.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Fear of exams and fear of poor performance results in anxiety and this anxiety is resulting in distraction which cause poor concentration in exams and poor focus. This further deteriorates the performance and you feel bad due to exams. This is a vicious cycle and you have to break it. Try to remain relaxed during exams and your performance anxiety will go. Start taking supplements containing Omega 3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin B12 and the anxiety will decrease. If anxiety symptoms persists then drugs like Beta-blockers can be used prior to exams and these drugs will reduce the autonomic anxiety symptoms and you will feel better. Propranolol can be used on SOS basis prior to exams and your anxiety will decrease. Talk to a doctor for this drug.