How to Use Your Support System to Crush the EPPP

If you’re studying for the EPPP—the big exam standing between you and full psychology licensure, you know how heavy the pressure can feel. Endless material, high stakes, and self-doubt can pile up fast. It’s easy to feel alone in all of this, like everyone else knows what they’re doing and you’re just scrambling to keep up. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to do this alone. Your support system, friends, family, mentors, and peers can make a real difference in how you study, retain information, and manage stress. And honestly, leveraging them isn’t just smart, it’s essential.

Crush That Exam made a video on this exact topic (watch here), and it got me thinking: so many people underestimate the power of community in exam prep. Most focus only on flashcards, practice questions, or study schedules, but your emotional and practical support network can seriously impact your results.

Why a Support System Matters More Than You Think

Let’s be real: studying for the EPPP isn’t just about knowing psychology. It’s about managing your mental health, pacing yourself, and staying motivated when things feel impossible. That’s where your support system comes in.

People often assume support is just “moral cheering,” but it’s more than that. A strong network can:

• Provide accountability – having someone check in on your study progress keeps you from procrastinating.

• Offer practical help – maybe a friend quizzes you on flashcards, a partner cooks you meals while you study, or a mentor reviews a tricky concept.

• Reduce stress and isolation – knowing someone has your back can make challenges feel more manageable.

When you combine study strategies with social support, you don’t just survive the prep—you thrive. That’s why Crush That Exam emphasizes building community alongside study skills.

Practical Ways to Build Your Support System

So, how do you actually put this into practice? Here are the strategies that have helped real EPPP students, inspired by the video:

1. Study Buddies and Peer Groups

Find people who are in the same boat as you. A study buddy doesn’t have to be in the same city—even a virtual connection works. The key is consistency. Schedule weekly video calls, quiz each other, or discuss tricky topics together. You’ll get new perspectives, fill knowledge gaps, and stay motivated when the going gets tough.

2. Mentors and Coaches

Sometimes, peers aren’t enough. That’s where mentors or coaches come in. A good coach doesn’t just give you answers—they guide your study plan, help with weak areas, and provide emotional support when anxiety spikes. Crush That Exam itself offers coaching options for exactly this purpose. This video (watch here) highlights how students who actively engage with mentors feel more confident and less alone.

3. Family and Friends

Your loved ones may not understand the EPPP intricacies, but they can support you in other ways. Let them know what you need—quiet space, understanding, or just someone to vent to after a rough study session. Communicating clearly prevents unnecessary tension and gives you a sense of being backed up by people who care.

4. Online Communities

If you’re more of a digital learner or isolated geographically, online communities are invaluable. Crush That Exam has a dedicated community platform (join here) where students share tips, struggles, and wins. The beauty of these communities is that everyone’s been through, or is going through, the same journey. You get advice and emotional validation all in one place.

Integrating Support Into Your Study Routine

It’s not enough to just have a support system—you need to actively integrate it. Here’s what that can look like:

• Weekly check-ins: Pick one or two people to connect with weekly. Discuss progress, roadblocks, and wins. Even 15 minutes can make a huge difference.

• Mini accountability sessions: Quick daily messages, checklists, or small study updates keep momentum going.

• Shared study plans: Use Google Docs or apps to share study calendars with peers or mentors. Seeing your plan in writing—and having someone else see it—adds accountability and clarity.

These small steps keep your support system active, practical, and genuinely helpful.

Handling Stress With Support

One of the biggest challenges in EPPP prep is emotional. Anxiety, burnout, and self-doubt can creep in, and that’s where support becomes critical. You might notice your stress levels spike after a long study session or a difficult practice exam. Having someone to talk to—whether a mentor, friend, or online community—lets you release tension instead of bottling it up.

Crush That Exam emphasizes that emotional support isn’t a luxury. It’s a key part of exam strategy. Students who use their network to manage stress are better able to focus during study sessions, retain information, and approach test day calmly.

Real-Life Example

One student shared how connecting with a mentor and joining the Crush That Exam community transformed their prep. At first, they were struggling to keep up with the material, isolated, and burned out. By attending weekly online group check-ins, asking questions in the community, and setting up short daily check-ins with a study buddy, they went from overwhelmed to organized and confident. They weren’t just learning psychology—they were learning how to learn in a sustainable, supported way.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Passing the EPPP isn’t just about hours of study—it’s about strategy, mindset, and support. Your network doesn’t replace your hard work, but it amplifies it. Whether it’s a friend, family member, mentor, or online community, find people who will lift you, keep you accountable, and remind you that you can do this.

If you haven’t already, check out the Crush That Exam video on using your support system and consider joining their community for added guidance. The journey is tough, but with the right people by your side, it becomes a lot more manageable—and even empowering.

Remember: your support system is not just an accessory. It’s a tool, a lifeline, and a secret weapon in your EPPP prep. Use it, nurture it, and watch how it changes your study game.

Discover how leveraging your support system can transform EPPP prep. Learn practical tips, study strategies, and join the Crush That Exam community for guidance.

Reference: EPPP: How To Use Your Support System