August is a month of equal excitement and nervousness for many families. Scottish students have already seen their results, with English, Welsh and Northern Irish students waiting to hear about their GCSE and A-Level exam results over the next couple of weeks. Whatever the outcome, the time can be an emotional rollercoaster for many young people.
Below are some tips on how you can best support young people, through this potentially emotionally challenging time:
They might be carrying around pressure from teachers, peers, family, and themselves. It’s no surprise that this can come out in terms of poor sleep, appetite issues, mood swings or needing more alone time. Even if their stress does seem out of proportion, it’s important to remember that to them it is real.
Ask them how they are feeling on results day. Let them speak, and don’t rush in with quick answers or assurances that they shouldn’t worry. Move the conversation away from grades alone, and talk about what they have learned, what they have achieved, and the effort they have put in. A simple “How are you feeling about it all?” can start a worthwhile discussion.
Every child’s experience is different. Comparing grades to a friend’s, sibling’s or classmates’ can potentially make them feel judged or disheartened. Stand by and celebrate their own achievements and possibilities.
Results don’t always meet expectations. If they fail to live up to what they had anticipated, try to respond with level-headedness. Calm down together and consider options such as re-sits, different courses, vocational studies or alternative career ideas. Showing them that there are alternatives can reduce the perception that it all depends on one day.
For students who already have results in Scotland, perhaps it would be discussing clearing, college applications or what to do next. For students yet to receive their results, perhaps it would be finding out how to deal with things if or when they don’t go as expected. Having a plan can give the young person in your life a sense of being more in control.
Your reaction will influence theirs. Staying calm and balanced, even if you’re disappointed, can show them how to deal with setbacks in a constructive way. Your reassurance can help them keep things in perspective.
Talk to them about dealing with stress that supports their wellbeing. For example, it might be exercise, relaxation, spending time with friends or staying off social media for a while. The digital rush of results-day texts can easily add to the pressure.
If you see ongoing anxiety, withdrawal or low mood, it might be a good idea to speak to their GP, school or a mental health specialist. Early intervention can make all the difference.
Remember, whether exam grades cause celebration or despair, your ongoing belief in their potential is most crucial. Results matter but they are not the sole predictor of their destiny.
If you’re concerned about your child’s mental wellbeing, Teladoc Health UK offers a Parent Consultation and Child Assessment service for children aged up to and including 18 years. This includes a session with a qualified expert, followed by a written report providing tailored advice on the next steps to best support your child. For more information: Mental Health: Child Assessments & Parent Consultations | Teladoc Health UK
Related links: Blogs | Teladoc Health UK
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