Last semester I was in my exam and it felt like my mind froze, like it went blank. However hard I tried I just couldn’t think, so I got up and left. Once I was outside I felt better, like the panic left me. Then I felt really down and hopeless as I have definitely failed that exam and probably the subject. What should I do?
What you are describing is a result of extreme anxiety. Not much fun in an exam or any time. Certainly there are ways to help you with your problem. When we become very anxious, our capacity for complex thinking, and remembering, is reduced, and our capacity to survive at a very primitive level is enhanced. This is good for survival of the species, but not so good for survival at university.
The skills you need to learn are how to manage your anxiety. You can also gain insight into why you may be so anxious and develop an understanding that would reduce your extreme anxiety response. All of this can be done through counselling. The important point for you is that you seek and receive help well before exam time. Change takes time and a last minute consultation will not give you the outcomes you deserve: a clear, focused mind in exams. You need a good few weeks to work on this problem. You are welcome to view our webpage on ways to manage anxiety.
