By Dr Sheela Upreti
Exam pressure in medicine runs notably long, and it can feel like others outside that bubble don't understand what it's like - or that those more senior to us have forgotten the ordeal. During this time, we're often told, or we tempted to tell ourselves a ‘sugar-coated version’ of our situation.
Sometimes that sounds like downplaying the exam itself: "it's not a big deal," or "there are so many worse things happening in the world."
Other times it sounds like a verdict on our reactions: "I shouldn't be so worried," "I'm overreacting," or "why can't I just get on with it."
These thoughts and comments usually come from a good place, but they don't feel good to hear, and they don't usually motivate us to study or focus.
A small shift in language, while staying honest - can have a much more positive impact.
So how do we do this?
The first step is naming the thought.
"This exam is important to me."
"I feel stressed today."
"I think I need help."
The second is engaging with and making sense of it. It’s important to acknowledge and validate that the stress you are experiencing is a reasonable response and makes sense, rather than treating the thought as wrong. Find words that feel like your own style or borrow the ones below. Being on your own side matters here.
"It's important to me because I've worked so hard to be here."
"It makes sense I'm feeling stressed with everything going on."
"It feels hard to ask for help because that's something new for me."
Once we name our stress and drop the judgment that comes with it, we're in a much stronger position to start reducing it. Stay tuned for more.
Dr Sheela Upreti delivers professional and high-performance coaching for AMA members.
Would you like support?
If you are struggling with exams, re-living prior exam failures, not sleeping with anxiety, or in need of practical tips for your viva, you are welcome to book a 15‑minute complimentary call to find out more about how trauma-informed performance coaching designed specifically to support doctors can help.