By CAPS Afterhours Program and Crisis Response Associate Director Patti Dixon, LMSW

Even when you do well on an exam, the period of time after the test can be anxiety-provoking. It can be difficult to turn off your mind and stop replaying the questions and your answers. Self-care is an important part of academic performance and essential after taking a simple quiz or a tough exam.

What are some ways to unwind after an exam?

1. Relax: You just spent hours staring at notes, books or a computer screen. Once the exam is over, schedule a date with yourself to relax.

2. Do the opposite: You most likely were sitting for a while taking the exam. Shake it off. Go for a brisk walk. Leave the building and walk around the block. Breathe in some fresh air. Get yourself a special treat.

3. See your friends: Message a friend that you are free for a few hours and would like to hang out. Even a brief Zoom chat can help you reset after an exam.

4. See your family. Even if it is just dinner, make the effort to check in. Your family has watched you putting the effort in - let them know you appreciate them (and leave your textbooks in the bag).

5. Watch a movie: Studying for the exam most likely took a lot of time. Take two hours to give yourself a reward by watching something in the theater or at home that is completely unrelated to the test.

6. Exercise: Go for a run, do yoga, take a walk, go bowling, play basketball, take a swim, go dancing - any activity that gets you moving is great to do after an exam. Exercise helps burn off the adrenaline dump caused by the stress of the test.

7. Do nothing: It is ok to take some time to sleep, stare at the ceiling and do nothing productive for a short while. Just be in the moment.

8. Don't panic: Panic isn't going to help. Accept that sometimes exams are difficult and it is perfectly normal to struggle or even do poorly at times. Take a deep breath and focus on how you can do better next time.

9. Plan a meal: Exams take energy. Plan to have some healthy and protein-rich snacks on hand after the exam so your energy level doesn't crash.

10. Breathe in, breathe through, breathe deep, breathe out: Repeat.

CAPS is here for you

WSU Applebaum offers dedicated Counseling and Psychological Services support to students on a group or individual basis.

Getting started is easy! Call 313-577-3398 or visit caps.wayne.edu and complete the initial consultation form, being sure to note that you are a WSU Applebaum student.

WSU Applebaum students can also reach out to CAPS directly at 313-577-3243 or email PatriciaDixon@wayne.edu. If you need help after hours or on the weekend, call CAPS at 313-577-9982.