09 February 1885

[Daily Prophet]

FEBRUARY 9TH 1885

ADVICE COLUMN HOW TO HANDLE ACADEMIC STRESS

Dear Mrs. Knott, Ever since I had been a young boy, I have been considered to be quite a dedicated pupil, focusing on my studies with astounding devotion and rarely limiting myself to just one subject (hence why I’m currently taking three electives at Hogwarts!). However, my fifth year is proving to be more difficult than I am used to, and while I love myself a good challenge, I’m nervous that my sixth and seventh years will be even more stressful -- especially with a full load of classes! So my question is: how can I juggle all seven of my N.E.W.T classes without becoming a wound up ball of nerves? In what ways can I reduce the stress I’m undergoing now? Sincerely, Mr. Dedicated Pupil Dear Mr. Dedicated Pupil, First of all, let me state how pleasant it is to come across a young person so dedicated to their studies -- too many youngsters nowadays handle their education in a careless manner! Second, my advice would be to stay calm, remain level-headed, eat a balanced diet,

work on your assignments in a non-stressful environment, and most importantly: manage to take a break every now and then. While I am firm in my belief that studying is very important to one’s education, it will do you no good if you constantly have your nose in a school textbook or drive yourself half-mad attempting to memorize every single little detail. Read a fiction novel for pleasure; socialize with friends; have a cup of chamomile tea (a very helpful beverage in reducing anxiety!) in the Common Room in front of the fire -- just relax. If the chamomile tea or any of the other peaceful distractions are not available to you or are not effective and the stress is just too much to bear, just pause, close your eyes, and a take a minute or two to breathe deeply in and out. It may not do much to clear your mind, but it certainly will help to regain your composure and give you a few moments to breathe and collect your thoughts. Well, I hope that answers your question(s) and meets your needs, good sir! If I can be of any help once more, you know where to find me! Sincerely, Mabel Knott AUTHOR: MABEL KNOTT

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