August 22, 2025
By: By Dr. Ahmed Magdy Abdelaziz
Think beyond just passing. What kind of student do you want to be? What future are these exams a stepping stone toward?
Maybe it’s about making yourself proud, honoring your hard work, or opening doors you’re excited about. This is your “why.” Keep it close.
When you think about exams, what uncomfortable thoughts and feelings appear? It might be the thought, “I’m going to fail,” or a knot of anxiety in your stomach.
Just notice and name them: “There’s that feeling of dread again.” You don’t have to like them—just acknowledge they’re there.
When the yucky stuff shows up, what do you do for immediate relief? Endlessly scroll, snack mindlessly, or argue with a family member?
These moves may help for a minute, but do they help in the long run—or pull you away from what matters?
Which actions move you toward your values (your answer to #1), even when it’s hard? Creating a study plan, taking a 10-minute walk, reviewing a tough chapter,
or getting enough sleep are “satisfaction moves” that build momentum and confidence over time.
| Relief Moves (short-term) | Satisfaction Moves (long-term) |
|---|---|
| Doom-scrolling or hopping between apps | 10–15 minute focused study sprint, then a short break |
| Skipping sleep to cram | Consistent sleep routine to consolidate memory |
| Arguing/withdrawing when anxious | 2–3 slow breaths, name the feeling, return to your plan |
| Avoiding the toughest subject | Start with one small, doable task in the hardest topic |
Before, during, and after your exams, gently ask: “Is what I’m doing right now working to get me closer to my goals?”
If you’re caught in a relief move, notice it without judgment and guide yourself back to a satisfaction move. It’s not about perfection—it’s about presence and
making conscious choices that serve you.
Remember: you are more than your exam results. Be kind to yourself, stay connected to your “why,” and know that we’re here to support you with
child & adolescent mental health services and
adult psychiatry (online & in-person).
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps students notice their thoughts and feelings without getting stuck in them, so they can take actions that align with their values and goals during exam preparation.
Simple techniques include mindful breathing, naming the feeling you are experiencing, or doing a short 10–15 minute study sprint followed by a break. These strategies shift you from temporary “relief moves” to long-term “satisfaction moves.”
Yes, feeling stressed or anxious during exam season is very common. ACT teaches students to make room for stress and still focus on actions that bring them closer to their goals.
Yes. AlmaCare provides child & adolescent mental health services and adult psychiatry (online and in-person) to support students and families in managing exam stress effectively.
Address: Clinic 205, United Medical Center, Fifth Settlement, Cairo (next to Hassan El-Shorbaby Mosque)
Phone / WhatsApp: 01101010853
Website: almacareclinic.com
Tip: If you are searching for the Best Psychiatrist in Fifth Settlement Cairo, contact us today. Our team in Almacare will connect you with the right doctor, psychologist/psychiatrist in Fifth Settlement Cairo, or online psychiatrist/psychologist in Cairo based on your needs.
