Stressed Over A-Level Results Day?

It’s one of the biggest and most stressful days in the student and teacher calendar…it’s A-Level results day.

Teenagers across the country will face another sleepless night as they wait in anticipation for the piece of paper that determines whether or not they have made the university of their dreams. Meanwhile, teachers, including myself, will be up at 6am pulling apart the data to check on each and every one of their students.

Before we get into the psychology of keeping calm, I would just like to wish every student and teacher across the country the very best of luck.

Keep Calm

Researchers at Northumbria University explain that at this time of year students and teachers often picture the worst possible outcome, a phenomenon known as catastrophizing and while this is a common, there are simple steps we can all take to keep calm.

Read: Stressed over A level results day? Psychology expert gives her top tips for keeping calm

1) Relaxation exercises – why not try some muscle relaxation exercises, close your eyes, tense all of the muscles in your body and count to ten, and then relax. Research suggests that just being aware of the difference between being tense and relaxed can help you to relax.

2) Be prepared – while you shouldn’t think about the worst possible outcome, it is important to prepare and know what options are available, should you not get the results you’re after.

3) Keep distracted – according to researchers at Northumbria University one of the best ways to relieve stress is to distract yourself and focus your attention elsewhere.

4) Keep it real – while it’s natural to feel nervous, last year the NSPCC quoted a 20% rise in calls regarding exam stress and while the organization is there to support students they urge students and parents to remember that exams aren’t everything! They explain: “It’s important to remember there is life beyond exam results. Disappointing grades are not the end of the world, even if it doesn’t feel that way at the time.”

Want Support, Advice or Guidance?

At tutor2u we are here to provide support, advice or guide to both teachers and students. If anyone wants advice following their A-Level results, email joseph@tutor2u.net and I will reply as soon as possible.

Reference: Graham, H. (2016, August 18). Stressed over A level results day? Psychology expert gives her top tips for keeping calm. Retrieved from Chronicle Live: http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/north-east-new...

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Credit: Chronicle Live, referenced below.