Brain dead

[GomerPyle]

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Can anybody relate? There are times where my brain is so energized that I feel motivated and believe I can solve any problem in the world - this is the feeling I want going into the exam. For those of you that haven't taken the MCAT yet, you want to be taking the exam in this sort of mental state (rather than the state of exhaustion, which prompted me to retake my exam). For the past few weeks, my brain feels clogged, and I feel I can't think as good as I used to - I have not had that mental energy.

I exercise 3-4 times per week, have a decent diet, but have been really stressed with this MCAT and this years application cycle. I am sure this the primary cause, but what else could it be? I get 8 hours of sleep per night and I have taken 1 or 2 day breaks. For any of you that can relate, how have you successfully dealt with this? I took the MCAT one month ago, and my brain was even more drained than it is now, and I couldn't decipher much at all, especially at the beginning of the test.

Thx

 

[hopefuldoctor19]

I know exactly how you feel. Usually for me the reason I'm not doing well on practice problems/passages is because I'm too frustrated and anxious. I just take a break for half an hour. Nap or eat something, and remind myself that I'm good for the test. You've got to keep the motivation up I think

 

[Helixkam]

Hey man we are both 5/18'ers I think. Before the test I got super drained out like 2-3 weeks before. I realized that it wasnt just taking a day or two off that helps but what helps is active relaxation rather than passive relaxation. What I mean is that passive relaxation might be lounging around and watching TV but in the back of your mind the MCAT is still there. You need to do something that while might make you physically tired it would also leave your mind refreshed. One thing that really worked for me was going on hikes through some tough trails with some friends. Getting into nature always clears my mind and I end up not thinking about the MCAT or anything the whole day and feel much more energized mentally afterwards.

I'd say any hobby that fully takes your attention and energy would work well. The exercise you do probably definitely has helped you so far but maybe trying something new and different might also take your mind off the MCAT for a day. Really thats what needs to be done, somehow you gotta forget about that test and give your mind a break.

PM me if you want to talk more about this issue as I know exactly what youre going through.

 

[oxelhs]

Was getting this feeling a lot. Went to a giant music festival this weekend and I feel 100x more focus and concentrated. The focus helps especially with verbal.

 

[Helixkam]

dude totally know what you mean, I bombed a verbal practice section and then rested for a few days by hiking and then did well on a similar one right afterwards.

 

[oxelhs]

Makes me wonder how much time off I should take before the write. I think a full two days would be enough but by doing something active, not just sitting on the couch or smth....

 

[GomerPyle]

Thanks for the input guys- I really appreciate it.

The MCAT has always been on the back of my mind, and if it hasn't, than the application sure is. It is just very stressful since I didn't get accepted last year and now this year I have to retake again. Lots of pressure. I'll partake in some activities to clear my head and let you know how it all goes!

Any other view points?

 

[oxelhs]

A week before, go out with your friends. Pop a molly. Thank me after.