GCSE results ‘don't define you’, says Oxfordshire mental health charity
Thousands of pupils across the county will be picking up their results
A mental health charity in Oxfordshire is reminding students picking up their GCSE results that they are “a chapter in a much bigger story” which doesn’t define you.
Thousands of pupils across the county and up and down the UK will be picking up their results today (21/08).
Chris Buchanan from Oxfordshire Mind said: “It's normal to feel stressed, anxious and uncertain leading up to it.
“Your worth isn't written on a piece of paper. It's who you are as a person and how you keep moving forward from the results.
“Whether it’s the news that you were hoping for or not, the results don't define you. It's just a chapter in a much bigger story. It's not something that will ultimately define how your rest of your life will play out.”
He added: “It’s important to acknowledge your feelings. It's ok to feel nervous and trying to push those feelings away can sometimes make those feelings feel stronger.
“Remind yourself that that they'll pass and feel free to talk about it, whether that's with a friend, family member, a teacher or a helpline, they're definitely there to help.
“Also, anything that you can do to look after your body and mind during this time is great. It's important to stick to a routine, get rest, eat well, keep active, because your mind will cope better when your body's looked after at the same time.”
The NSPCC say during they delivered over 700 counselling sessions last year due exam results worry with a spike in calls this month.
Mr Buchanan is encouraging anyone who is feeling overwhelmed or struggling to reach out for support.
He said: “There's plenty of support available, whether that's through local charities such as Oxfordshire Mind, Samaritans or your friends and family…there's a lot of people who are here to love and support you.”