Struggling with Exam Anxiety: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges

Old problem?

I am very clear about the source of my stress, which is the constant failure to pass the teacher certification exam and the inability to let go of these feelings.
I have spent a year on this, and it may still end up being in vain.
The uncertainty is overwhelming.
Not working for a year has made me increasingly disheartened, and I feel like I have become a person with no abilities.
When I share these feelings with my classmates, I am met with comments like, "You're too anxious!" They say I'm too eager to pass the exam.
I feel a mix of emotions and wonder why I shouldn't be anxious; it feels like I'm going crazy.
Those who have not experienced this will never understand.
My classmates are funded students and do not have to face these exams.
We have been studying for 4.5 years, and switching to civil service exams means more testing, as if we are trapped in an endless cycle of examinations, potentially leading to nothing.
The pressure is mounting, and I even dream about classmates' acquaintances taking unknown exams, resulting in brain tumors—so I think I shouldn't take the exams anymore.
When I have such dreams, I feel scared because I worry about losing my sanity.
Two years ago, I saw a psychiatrist who said I was normal—just experiencing adjustment disorder.
I took medications like Entacapone, Eslon, and Wellbutrin, and I visited the doctor about four times.
The doctor said I could decide whether to continue going, and I eventually stopped.
However, every year around July, when exam season arrives, the anxiety resurfaces.
Because of my previous experience with the doctor, my family often jokes about it, saying I was like a child back then, that I was mentally ill.
If it weren't for them, I would have gone crazy.
Now, I am unsure if I should go back for treatment because my family thinks I am just looking for trouble when there is none.
It feels like I am the subject of their lifelong jokes, and I can't let go of their perceptions.
I am also a bit scared—if I take medication again, will it mean there is no hope left?

se, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/07/15

Dr. Zhang Zhehong reply Psychiatry

Your experiences are deeply intertwined with depression, anxiety, dreams, and traumatic memories, which may be indicative of a neurosis.
Like many great achievers, experiencing lows can often trigger a stronger potential within oneself.
It would be beneficial to seek out a psychiatrist who has ample time for consultations, ideally with fewer patients.
You can search online for in-depth psychological counseling and medication evaluation, which should help you navigate through this depressive episode.
Wishing you the best.

Reply Date: 2008/07/15

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing a significant amount of anxiety and distress related to your ongoing struggles with exams, particularly the teacher qualification exams. This situation is understandably overwhelming, especially after years of preparation and the pressure to succeed. Your feelings of inadequacy, fear of failure, and the emotional toll of this journey are valid and deserve attention.

Firstly, it's important to acknowledge that feeling anxious about exams is a common experience, but when it becomes chronic and affects your daily life, it may indicate a deeper issue that needs to be addressed. Your description of feeling like you are in a cycle of exams without any tangible results, coupled with the emotional weight of comparing yourself to peers, can lead to feelings of hopelessness and frustration. This is compounded by the societal expectations and pressures you face, especially when you see others progressing in their lives while you feel stuck.

One of the key strategies to manage exam anxiety is to shift your focus from the outcome of the exams to the process of preparation itself. Instead of fixating on whether you will pass or fail, try to concentrate on what you can control: your study habits, time management, and self-care practices. Breaking down your study material into manageable sections and setting realistic goals can help alleviate the pressure. Celebrate small victories along the way, as this can help build your confidence and reduce feelings of inadequacy.

Additionally, practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be beneficial. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness meditation can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Regular physical activity is also a powerful tool for managing stress and improving mood. Engaging in activities you enjoy, even if they seem trivial, can provide a much-needed break from the relentless cycle of studying and worrying.

It's also crucial to address the emotional aspects of your situation. You mentioned feeling misunderstood by your peers and family, which can exacerbate feelings of isolation. It may be helpful to seek support from a mental health professional who can provide a safe space for you to express your feelings and develop coping strategies. Therapy can help you explore the underlying beliefs that contribute to your anxiety and work towards reframing your thoughts about exams and your self-worth.

Regarding your concerns about medication, it's understandable to feel apprehensive, especially if past experiences have left you feeling uncertain. However, medication can be a helpful part of a comprehensive treatment plan for anxiety. If you decide to consult a psychiatrist again, consider discussing your fears openly. A good clinician will work with you to find the best approach, whether that involves medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Lastly, remember that your worth is not defined by your exam results. Many successful individuals have faced setbacks and challenges in their journeys. It's essential to be kind to yourself and recognize that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. You are not alone in this struggle, and there are resources and support systems available to help you navigate this difficult time.
In summary, focus on what you can control, practice self-care, seek professional support, and remember that your value extends beyond your exam performance. You have the strength to overcome this challenge, and with the right support and strategies, you can find a path forward that feels more manageable and fulfilling.

Similar Q&A

Overcoming Exam Anxiety: A Journey Through Mental Health Challenges

Hello, Doctor: It's been a long time since we last met. Perhaps I should have listened to your advice sooner! Aside from mentioning my poor memory and difficulty retaining information from books, I’ve lost interest in reading because I’ve read some books in the past. I find ...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, thank you for your hard work! I see you are striving to improve. In fact, whether it's for exams or work, maintaining good physical and mental health is a fundamental requirement. If you can't focus on studying and force yourself to give up work, it may indeed be...

Effective Strategies to Overcome Exam Anxiety and Nervousness

I would like to ask, I often feel uncomfortable or anxious due to exams or unfamiliar environments. Is this because I haven't prepared myself mentally? Are there medical treatments available for these symptoms? Or are there any methods to cope with this? I have an exam comin...

Dr. Chen Wenke reply Psychiatry
Hello: From the issues you've described, it is clear that you have an adjustment disorder, which you often manifest through symptoms of anxiety. Are you someone who tends to be impatient and frequently puts a lot of pressure on yourself, often displaying tense emotions? Indi...

Overcoming Anxiety and Fear: Tips for Focused Exam Preparation

Is it a comparison issue? I can never focus on my exam preparation because my mind just won't settle down, and I'm constantly worried about not doing well. This anxiety prevents me from concentrating on studying, and despite feeling exhausted, I hesitate to sleep. Inste...

Dr. Ding Shuyan reply Psychiatry
Hello, it seems that preparing for the exam is causing you considerable distress. When we perceive the challenges we face as overwhelmingly large and our own abilities as minuscule, we may become reluctant to confront these issues, even hesitating to start. Each day, we feel we s...

Managing Exam Anxiety: Strategies for Success in High-Stakes Testing

Hello, doctor. I am a 26-year-old male who recently graduated from graduate school in December 2016. I will be taking the licensing exam next week. As the exam approaches, I find myself lying in bed for 1 to 2 hours each night before falling asleep. Even when I do fall asleep, my...

Dr. Liu Runqian reply Psychiatry
Adjustment Disorder: This condition develops within three months of a clearly identifiable stressor, characterized by an extreme inability to cope with the stress, leading to symptoms of anxiety, tension, and depressive mood. If it has caused significant distress, short-term phar...