A briefing on preparing schoolchildren for the 2026 Unified National Testing (UNITED NATIONAL TEST) was held at the Almaty Regional Communications Service. During the event, adolescent psychologist Fatima Broeva presented recommendations for maintaining students' psychological health during the exam period.

According to the expert, teenagers perceive the UNT as an important life milestone and often associate it with their vision of future success. Therefore, preparing for the test becomes not only an academic but also a significant emotional process.

The expert noted that during adolescence, self-esteem is largely dependent on external assessments from others. During exam preparation, schoolchildren may develop a mindset in which test results are perceived as an indicator of their own worth. This increases anxiety and the fear of failure.

As the psychologist emphasized, prolonged stress can lead to decreased concentration, memory impairment, sleep disturbances, and general fatigue. These conditions are a sign of nervous system overload and require adult attention.

"Stress is the body's nonspecific response to demands. In moderate doses, it mobilizes resources, improves concentration, and enhances performance. However, chronic stress associated with lengthy exam preparation leads to the exhaustion of adaptive mechanisms," she added.

Practical recommendations for graduates include maintaining a balanced daily routine, getting adequate sleep, using breathing techniques, and taking short breaks during preparation. These measures help reduce stress and maintain productivity.

The specialist paid special attention to the role of family. It's important for teenagers to feel supported, regardless of exam results. Having alternative educational options also helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence in the future.

"A child needs to feel that love and acceptance aren't dependent on exam results. Excessive expectations increase the fear of failure. A constructive parental approach is one of partnership, not control," the RSC spokesperson stated.

It is also important to create a safe psychological environment within schools themselves: school psychologists should initiate stress-resilience training, teach self-regulation skills, and provide individual consultations to support graduates during the examination period.

In conclusion, the psychologist emphasizes that the UNT is an important stage of education, but not a measure of a graduate's worth. Emotional support from school and family, a calm atmosphere, and a balance between preparation and rest help teenagers maintain psychological health, confidently navigate the exam period, and more calmly process the test results.