How to handle exam stress

Our local school nurses give you the top tips on reducing stress during exam season.

1. Revise little and often and break your revision up into small, more manageable chunks. Maybe create a revision timetable and give your self time to do fun things like seeing friends and chilling out as well!
2. Work on the subjects you are worried about and ask your teachers for help and guidance. This will help you fill the gaps in your knowledge and allow you to focus on the things you find most difficult.
3. Allow time for exercise to help you de-stress. This will help boost your happy hormones which will help reduce your stress levels too.
4. Revising can be very lonely, so allow time to check in with friends. You can chat about revision, or just chat about how you’re feeling.
5. Talk to someone you trust If you’re struggling with stress. This could be a parent, carer, teacher, school nurse or GP. Reaching out to someone when you feel worried can help take a weight off your shoulders and can help steer you in the right direction to receive help

Brand new: The first episode of our new podcast covers exam stress, listen to our group of young people chat to school nurses about how to tackle exam season.

If you need support

If you’re struggling with your mental health, chatting to a school nurse can be a good place to start to find help. Text a school nurse using our chat health number:

You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult.

Additional support sites 

School, College and Exams – CAMHS

Exam stress | Family Lives

Exam stress and pressure | Childline