<p>I have always had test anxiety. But this semester it seems to have gotten worse. Every time I try to study for a test i get nervous. Sometimes I tell myself, "I'll study in a few minutes. First I'll do my other assignments.". And then of course hours pass. I think I experience this avoidance behavior because when I actually do start studying I keep thinking, "What if I fail?". Sometimes I actually tell myself I'm going to fail. I'm starting to get a bit stressed out because midterms are coming. And the silly thing is that I am pretty bright. I'm not a genius. But I know I have the potential to ace my quizzes and such. But the thought of failing terrifies me. I try to take deep breaths before studying to help calm myself but that never works. </p>
<p>Any suggestions?</p>
<p>Have you tried talking to a professional about it? People telling you not to think about failing or to just study isn’t going to make you any more likely to do it. If this is actual anxiety, you need actual help, not advice from people over the internet.</p>
<p>If you documented test anxiety, you may also be able to get accommodations through the Disability Services Center at your school. They likely won’t help with studying, but it may help during the test.</p>
<p>Something you could try is to break down “studying” into discreet tasks, like the other assignments that you seem to be able to handle just fine. Instead, tell yourself to read this chapter or come up with three potential test questions or make flashcards and then learn so many words a day. Don’t think about it as studying for a test. Just think about it as completing assignments.</p>
<p>How did you handle this in high school? How have those strategies worked? </p>
<p>I have spoken with a doctor before. She said its very common among students. </p>
<p>I don’t feel overwhelmed when I’m handed a test. I feel find and relaxed once i have the test in front of me. I just have a hard time getting myself in the mood to study. It makes me feel nervous. </p>