Test AnxietyHelping Your Teen Prepare for the ACT/SAT with Confidence
For many teens, the weeks leading up to the ACT or SAT bring more than just study schedules, they bring real anxiety. A racing heart, trouble sleeping, blanking out during practice tests: these are common signs that test anxiety, not lack of preparation, is standing in the way.
Why Test Anxiety Happens
Standardized tests carry a lot of weight in a teen's mind; college admissions, scholarships, comparisons to peers. That pressure can trigger the body's stress response, making it harder to focus, recall information, or think clearly, even when a student knows the material well.
Signs to Watch For
Physical symptoms before or during testing (stomachaches, headaches, rapid heartbeat)
Avoidance of practice tests or studying altogether
Negative self-talk ("I'm going to fail," "I'm just not a good test-taker")
Sleep disruption in the days leading up to the test
A gap between how a student performs on homework versus timed tests
How to Help
Normalize the anxiety. Let your teen know that feeling nervous is common — and that it doesn't mean something is wrong with them.
Practice under realistic conditions. Timed, low-stakes practice tests can help the brain get used to the format and pressure.
Teach grounding techniques. Simple breathing exercises or a brief mindfulness practice before the test can calm the nervous system.
Separate effort from outcome. Praise preparation and effort, not just the score.
Know when to ask for support. If anxiety is significantly affecting your teen's daily life or test performance, a formal evaluation can help clarify what's going on — and whether accommodations like extended time might help.
Some students with diagnosed anxiety, ADHD, or learning differences qualify for testing accommodations on the ACT or SAT, such as extended time or a separate testing room. A psychoeducational evaluation can provide the documentation needed to request these accommodations.
If your teen is struggling with test anxiety, you don't have to navigate it alone. A comprehensive evaluation can help identify what's driving the anxiety and open the door to accommodations, coping strategies, and counseling support tailored to your teen's needs.