Whether you’re in school, college or sixth form, exam results can be a stressful time. It may seem that your whole future depends on the grades you get and that there’s nothing else you can do.
While it’s not easy to put a stop to the anxiety, there are things that you and those around you can do to help. If you’re feeling stressed about your exams, it’s a good idea to talk about it with someone. It could be a friend, relative or teacher. They’ll be able to offer reassurance and talk through your options if you don’t get the grades you need.
It’s also a good idea to keep yourself as busy as possible. Avoid waking up early to refresh the results page – this will only make the wait agonising. Try to stay occupied with hobbies, sports or socialising with friends. Regular breaks from studying are important too, as they help you to stay focused and prevent burnout. Eating a well-balanced diet with brain-boosting foods can also help you perform better on exam day.
The most important thing is to remember that it’s not just about the grades, but your wider achievements as a person. It can be tempting to compare your results with friends and others, but this can be a trap. Everyone’s circumstances are different and it’s not fair to judge your success by someone else’s performance. Try to focus on your own strengths and celebrate your successes.