University students often experience intense anxiety during exam periods, which not only affects academic performance but also lowers overall quality of life. Students may face challenges in attention, concentration, and time management, making it difficult to carry out daily tasks. Occupational therapists emphasize that exam anxiety should be addressed not only psychologically but also through sensory, cognitive, and behavioral dimensions.
Occupational therapy provides a holistic approach to support individuals in maintaining their daily life roles and functional skills. For students experiencing exam anxiety, strategies such as sensory regulation techniques, breathing and body awareness exercises, environmental modifications, time management planning, and engagement in meaningful activities are implemented to build coping skills. Individualized intervention plans take into account each student's learning style, attention profile, and coping mechanisms.
Experts recommend that university students create mindfulness-based routines with the guidance of occupational therapists to navigate the exam period more effectively. Incorporating physical activity, creative engagement, and social interaction into daily schedules—alongside academic tasks—can enhance mental resilience and reduce the impact of exam stress. Including occupational therapists in university student support services may contribute to expanding preventive and supportive interventions during exam seasons.
