Written by Tabitha and reviewed by our team. Tabitha is a Kortext student ambassador at the University of Exeter.
Exams are finally over – congratulations! After weeks of intense revision, caffeine-fuelled late nights and gruelling study sessions, it’s time to switch off and recharge.
But post-exam season can come with mixed emotions. Some people feel instant relief, while others stress about results or struggle to adjust back to a normal routine.
If you’re unsure how to spend your well-earned break, here’s a practical guide to recovering and making the most of your time off.
Dealing with post-exam stress and results anxiety
Even though the exams are done, the stress doesn’t always disappear immediately. Many students experience results anxiety, worrying about their grades and overanalysing their performance. Here’s how to handle it:
- Detach yourself from the exam mindset – what’s done is done! Avoid discussing your answers too much with classmates; it won’t change the outcome.
- Distract yourself with enjoyable activities – do something fun to shift your focus from worrying to relaxing.
- Limit checking results obsessively – if you have a long wait for results, set boundaries for when you’ll check updates or discuss them.
- Talk it out – if you’re feeling anxious, vent to a friend, family member or a student support service such as Student Minds. You’re not alone in feeling this way.
Prioritise rest and self-care
Exams take a toll on both your mind and body, so now is the time to catch up on sleep and take care of yourself:
- Fix your sleep schedule – all-nighter study sessions until sunrise might have thrown off your body clock. Try to get back into a healthy sleep routine.
- Eat nutritious food – swap that can of energy drink and junk food for balanced meals that will help your body recover.
- Exercise or get fresh air – whether it’s a gym session, a casual walk or mastering the cobra position during a yoga session, moving your body helps release stress and boost your mood.
Fun and productive ways to spend your break
Now that you’ve got free time, make the most of it! Here are some great ways to spend your post-exam break:
- Read for fun – pick up a light novel, a self-improvement book, or anything that isn’t a textbook.
- Try mindfulness or journalling – reflect on the semester and set intentions for the future.
- Plan a small trip or day out – a change of scenery, whether it’s a weekend away or just a local coffee shop, can be refreshing.
- Reconnect with family – if you’ve been away at uni, spending time at home might be just what you need.
Ease back into productivity
Start reintroducing light structure to your days with small, purposeful activities:
- Declutter your space – a post-exam reset for your room or study space can feel surprisingly therapeutic.
- Plan ahead – think about your goals for the next term, but don’t stress yourself out. A little preparation now can make things easier later.
- Explore hobbies or learn a new skill – whether it’s painting, playing an instrument, or learning a new language, now is a great time to try something new.
Exams are exhausting, and it’s completely okay to take a break – you’ve worked hard, and you deserve this time off!
