How to focus on study/work when we are anxious?

Try to have an hour for yourself, before studying or working. Close yourself somewhere where you can think and not be disturbed. Play some classical music (Vivaldi - Four seasons). Lie down on the bed, couch or a sofa, close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Try to do this every day

When anxious we are likely to take short, quick breaths which only make us experience heightened physical sensations of anxiety which in turn makes us more anxious. It would help to slow down and take deep breaths, and focus on your breathing to stay calm and concentrate while you study/ work.

Take a break and try to unwind before resuming your work. From experience, I know how stressful it can be when you want to get your stuff done, but it won't happen if you are so stressed that you cannot focus. So take a break and do something relaxing. Try meditating, taking a shower, eating a snack or even going for a quick walk. Then, when you have a clear mind you'll be better able to focus. If you find yourself getting stressed again, take another break and destress before returning to your work. And you can always try to change your work environment to make it more calming so you can limit your stress.

Every student and person experiences different spectrums of stress; some more than others when doing exams. Factors such as stress levels, distractions (too much time spent on the phone or the TV), diet, timing can affect how you take the information required to study for an exam. It’s important to address every bit of the problems you experience if unsure of certain topics academically to the teacher and arrange support groups sessions with friends. Hence it is important to evaluate which aspects you do and do not know well of the topic of concern. You can do this a few weeks before your exam. There is no shame is asking for help. In cases where anxiety is too extreme and affects your performance in exams do not hesitate to approach your teacher to see if exam arrangements can be put in place such as separate accommodation. Your mental health is more important and hopefully, you can work with your teacher to ensure that you can succeed in your class whilst keeping a check on your wellbeing. Exercise in the form of meditation or sports is good for brain activity and taking a walk in the fresh air - it’s completely okay to take 15 minute short breaks to let your brain refresh. Using a timer to stay focused for shorter amounts of time is a helpful tip. One must figure out the array of revision skills that work best for them (mnemonic devices, note-taking flash cards to remember important facts). Ribbs reflective cycle is a good way of reflecting back on past revision experiences in terms of what tactics worked well and did not work well. Also do not forget to inhale deep breathes through the nose slowly and then exhale. Best to keep a bottle of water near you when studying for an exam and keep snacks around you and cut down time of social media (only use it for the purpose of finding academic related information). Best of luck for your exams . 👍