Thanks wery much for the replies, it is good to know how other feal on this topic.

explanation of exam pressure: He was supposed to take an exam, but couldnt because he got tired all the time, and his astma broke out again. The doctor meant that the stress of this exam, as well as previously exams had built up to an level which kinda sprung the box in his head that contained all the bad memories from his childhood. The doctor has suggested seing a psychologist, which my boyfriend is going to do.