If you’re stressed about preparing for the VTNE® exam, you are not alone. Most veterinary technicians I’ve spoken to about the VTNE® were in the same boat. However, their individual stress management tips were very different.
Studying in different places, taking breaks and spending time with pets are just a few of the recommendations I heard. Undoubtedly, different techniques may be more effective in some individuals than in others.
Thankfully, there are many different categories of stress management techniques that have been scientifically proven if you are stressed about the VTNE.
In an downloadable guide called Stress and Stress Management (1), Dr. Lori Kogan, a Psychologist, has described 3 categories of stress management techniques, which are explained below.
You can give these a try as you prepare for the VTNE®!
1. Behavior-Oriented Stress Reduction Techniques
Diaphragmatic breathing is an example of a behavior-oriented technique that can reduce stress.
Dr. Kogan explains, “one type of beneficial breathing is diaphragmatic breathing, defined as abdominal/belly or deep breathing, and is marked by expansion of the abdomen rather than the chest when breathing.”
You may be wondering - what are some of the benefits of this breathing technique? In her guide, Dr. Kogan explains that the positive effects include:
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- A decrease oxygen consumption, heart rate, and blood pressure
- A reset the autonomic nervous system
2. Thought-Oriented Stress Reduction Techniques
Monitoring self-talk is an example of how your thought processes can help you manage stress. Using encouraging language, focusing on past positive situations and avoiding generalizations of negative situations are all ways to effectively manage your thought processes.
Additionally, embracing stress is another example of a thought-oriented stress reduction technique. It is a powerful technique - as Dr. Kogan explains, “viewing stress as a potentially positive element can help prevent negative physical and psychological damage.”
3. Lifestyle-Oriented Stress Reduction Techniques
Have you ever had a massage where you’ve been told that you must be stressed because your muscles are tense? That’s because tense muscles often accompany stress, explains Dr. Kogan. So, what can you do to reduce your stress levels and muscle tension? Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is one technique you can try and it can be even more effective when combined with deep breathing techniques.
Want to know more about how to practice Diaphragmatic breathing and Progressive Muscle Relaxation? Curious about other examples for behavior-oriented, thought-oriented or lifestyle-oriented techniques that you can try? Download Dr. Kogan’s Guide, Stress and Stress Management for more stress management advice.
Best of luck preparing for the VTNE®!
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