Exam Stress

Here in the UK, young people all over the country are gearing up for the beginning of exam season. GCSEs, A levels, and uni exams are a rite of passage but also a source of considerable angst. As the pressure to study and do well looms, some teens get stressed! One minute they’re zen—next minute they’re spiralling about forgetting everything they’ve learned since Year 2! Enter – homeopathy. Homeopathy is a great solution to bring support when pressure is high, sleep is elusive, and tempers (possibly theirs and yours?) are all over the shop.

As a mom of 3 sons ages 15-22 and a homeopath with many teens in my practice, I’ve seen first hand just how impactful exams can be! Here are 5 of my favourite remedies for exam-related stress, nerves, and mental overwhelm:

1. Gelsemium – For the “I can’t do this” freeze

If your teen gets shaky, foggy, or flat-out freezes before a test, Gelsemium might be their go-to remedy. It’s great for the kind of anticipatory anxiety that makes them feel weak, slow, and utterly overwhelmed.

Think: trembling hands, blank minds, and wanting to hide under the duvet forever.

2. Argentum Nitricum – For the overthinker in overdrive

This one’s for the teen who’s buzzing like a live wire. Restless, chatty, constantly worrying they’ll forget everything, and maybe even craving sweets before exams—Argentum Nitricum can help take the edge off that high-speed brain.

Perfect for: the panicked planner who’s triple-checking the exam location… again.

3. Lycopodium – For the secretly nervous perfectionist

On the surface, they seem fine—confident even. But underneath? Self-doubt central. Lycopodium is wonderful for teens who get anxious about not performing well, despite having prepared well.

You might hear: “I know I studied, but what if I suddenly forget everything?!” These guys tend to have a lot of tummy-troubles before exams as well. They can be gassy, and running to the loo.

4. Kali Phos – For the mentally burnt-out

Kali Phos is like a little brain recharge for when your teen is mentally fried. It’s great for fatigue, brain fog, and that classic “I’ve stared at this textbook for hours and absorbed zero information” feeling.

A popular one during revision marathons and late-night study sessions, it can be great to help with sleep and headaches as well.

5. Aconite – For sudden panic attacks or exam-day terror

If anxiety hits suddenly—like full-blown panic mode before walking into the exam hall—Aconite can help bring a sense of calm. It’s for those intense “fight or flight” moments when fear takes over all rational thought.

Great for exam mornings, especially if there’s shaking, palpitations, or a sense of dread.

A gentle reminder…

Homeopathy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—everyone’s stress shows up differently, and sometimes a little chat, a warm hug, a good snack, or even a mindful moment can work wonders too. These remedies might just give them that extra bit of grounding they need to get through exam season feeling supported. An appointment with a homeopath can be helpful as well. If your teen is open to it, consider booking an appointment with a homeopath to individualise support and find just the right remedy. (And hey, maybe pop a dose of Kali Phos in your own bag while you’re at it—I see you, stressed-out parent!)

Blog post by Cori Anderberg
Visit her website: www.corianderberg.com

If you often feel tense, overwhelmed, or run down, take a look at our Natural Ways to Stress Less course. Learn simple, calming strategies and homeopathic support to help your body unwind, restore balance, and feel more at ease each day.