Test Anxiety
Anxiety about tests is a common type of "generalized anxiety", a feeling of apprehension and fear characterized by physical symptoms such as rapid heart beat, sweating, feelings of stress, and insomnia. You cannot be "tested for test anxiety". You can, however, be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. It is generally recommended that you call your health-care provider if you are experiencing anxiety signs and symptoms, especially if this has been going on for a period of 6 months or longer, or it interferes with your daily functioning. A physical examination and a psychological evaluation should be completed in order to rule out other causes of anxiety. Physical disorders that may mimic an anxiety state should be ruled out, as well as drug-induced symptoms. Various diagnostic tests may be done in this process. While test anxiety alone is not a disability, an anxiety disorder could be considered a disability if it significantly affects one's ability to cope with the world in general. The Disability Resource Center provides services to individuals with such disabilities.
Anxiety about exams is normal and something every student experiences to some degree. If your anxiety is affecting your eating, sleeping, friendships, work or play; in other words, if your anxiety is affecting your entire life, you may have a generalized anxiety disorder. If your tension centers primarily upon school issues, and particularly tests, you have a fairly normal nervousness about being evaluated and possibly not doing well. If the anxiety is triggered by exams and not by life in general, then you can adopt strategies regarding (a) how best to prepare for evaluations and, (b) coping with stress. You have many campus support resources to assist you. (See below.)
If you are a DRC student, you can discuss your concerns with your Access Specialist. A counselor or therapist can help you with strategies for identifying and coping with stress. If you have access to a local primary care physician, start with your own doctor. If you are not from this area you can contact Counseling Services (756-2511) or Health Services (756-1211).
You may want to learn as much as you can about stress and anxiety; you are to be commended for seeking information and help. Don’t stop now -- there is no quick fix, but it is worth the effort.
Cal Poly Campus Resources
The Academic Skills Center has workshops every quarter on Test Preparation and Test Taking Techniques.
Counseling Services has some useful Self-Help Resources to help control anxiety.