Introduction Managing stress

Exams and assignments can be uncomfortable experiences for many students and it can be difficult to do yourself justice. Preparing assignments, revising and taking exams can make you feel anxious and stressed. In this section you'll find audio files to download so you can listen to our ideas for dealing with revision and the exam, or use the relaxation exercises.

Knowing how to cope with the demands of exams and assignments can vastly improve the experience for you. Visualisation techniques and self-talk can make a real difference, as an alternative or in addition to relaxation exercises.

Some students find medical advice for their anxiety helpful. If you have any other exam related problems or difficulties, you can contact your student support team (SST).

More information can be found from Mind, the mental health charity. In particular, see their How to cope with student life page.

Access support

Current OU students can access free mental health and wellbeing support through our partnerships with Shout 85258 and TalkCampus.

Shout 85258 offers free and confidential text message support to anyone in the UK who is struggling to cope. Text OU to 85258 to start a conversation with a trained volunteer, at any time, day or night. For more information about this service see our Shout 85258 article.

TalkCampus provides a safe, totally anonymous online space to air concerns with other students and get support for your mental health and wellbeing. It’s available to you 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information and to download the app, see our TalkCampus article.

If you have queries about your study, contact your SST.