Pupils across the South West battling stress and anxiety
Children are experiencing high levels of stress due to exam season pressures.
With exam season in full swing, across the South West, it can be a difficult time for children and young people tackling revision and tests.
The NSPCC said they delivered counselling sessions to 1,819 children between April 2023 and March 2024, who contacted the service over concerns about the exam season.
The charity said children who experience high levels of anxiety and stress said they find it difficult to revise. Young people also shared concerns about pressure from teachers and parents to do well, and admitted feeling overwhelmed by the amount of revision and exams.
The NSPCC are encouraging children to think positively. And to replace negative thoughts like ‘I can’t do this’ and ‘I’m going to fail’- with positive thoughts such as ‘this is just anxiety it can’t harm me’ and ‘relax, concentrate – it’s going to be OK’.
South West Campaigns Manager, Emma Motherwell, said: "For some it's the pressure they put on themselves to do well. And that can have impacts on the quality of revision they are able to do and the performance they give in their exams.
"Children should try to take time out to relax, and take stress out through hobbies or other interests. Or they can use our 'calm zone' on Childline where they can take time out of exam pressures."
The charity also advises parents and carers to reassure children that you are here to support them. And suggests talking to them over text or on the phone if they don’t feel able to speak in person. Parents should recognise that their feelings are valid and let them know that it’s OK for them to be honest about how they are feeling.
Childline can be contacted on 0800 1111 or go to childine.org.uk