WHAT! You’ve just finished exams and you’re not happy – how could you be feeling this way? For many, the end of exams signals the beginning of fun, relaxation and being stress free, but sometimes you feel worse than you did during your exams. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Let us help you understand why you feel like this.
Despite popular belief, stress can actually benefit you, especially when you’re studying and writing exams. You know that this needs to be done and the stress of this actually helps you to focus, improving your performance.
Basically, you’re becoming motivated in the fact that you will be able to remember the work as well as knowing that each day is one step closer from it all being over…and this is the problem.
What do I do now?
Your alarm goes off the next morning and you immediately sit up to start another day of studying…oh wait, exams are over and you actually have nothing to do! You feel that question start to build: “So, what do I do now?” There’s no more motivation and no light at the end of the tunnel and you begin to feel tired, moody and even depressed.
So, why am I feeling this way?
When you are focused on a task, in this case: studying, your brain actually releases a chemical called serotonin, which is responsible for balancing your mood. It also helps you to focus when you’re trying to concentrate on a task, such as studying and writing exams.
It basically helps you establish a routine because it also affects:
- social behaviour
- appetite
- sleep
- memory
But now that exams are over and there’s nothing to worry about, your level of serotonin drops and this can lead to depression and can upset your sleeping patterns and appetite, worsening the problem.
How can I overcome this?
The best way to get through this is to find an activity that interests you and allows you to set goals. Your serotonin level will increase as you progress. Why not try taking up a sport, hit the gym or read that book that’s been sitting on your bedside table for the last 2 months.
If you would like to get more information why not give one of our docs a call? Simply visit the Hello Doctor website and subscribe to our service and you’ll be getting the advice you need in no time!
Sources: Medical News Today, WebMD, Same Same