From the School Counselling Service 
Being mindful of looking after ‘self’ during exams
We are aware that many of you are preparing for your exams just now and we would like to acknowledge this and let you know that we are thinking about you all.
We would also like to share some ideas about how to look after your ‘self’ during this time and some links to useful information as you navigate through the next few weeks.
It is normal to feel worried or stressed about exams. Stress is your body’s natural response to pressure. Sometimes a little bit of stress can help you focus your energy or your mind, but sometimes it can become overwhelming.
It is important to recognise that you are not alone and that there are things that you can do to look after your ‘self’ and build your resilience alongside managing your revision and exam prep.
Resilience is our ability to adapt to different situations or difficult times. We can build on what we already know helps us by using our internal and external resources to find ways to cope well.
Your exam results may be important but so is your mental health.
As human beings there are things that help us all in terms of our Well-Being, like;
Sleep. Food. Hydration. Movement. Fresh Air. Routine. Taking Breaks. Being Prepared.
In addition to looking after these basic needs, there are other things we can do to relieve pressure and feel more able to cope well. Below you will find a quick guide to…
Looking after your ‘self’
It is also important to remember that you are unique. Notice your limits and boundaries.
Be gentle with yourself and try not to compare yourself to others.
Focus on what you need and what works best for you.
Try to relax before each exam, focus on your next steps and reward yourself along the way.
If you are finding things difficult or particularly stressful, speak to an adult that you trust and that can help or support you. If you have any questions about study skills, remember, you can speak to your school.
ParentClub has some information for parents/carers about how they can help you during exams.
The ABCC’s
A – Awareness
Check in with yourself. Notice how you feel and what you need.
B – Balance
Try to make time for all the different things that you may need.
C – Connection
Reach out, connect or share with safe people you trust.
C – Compassion
Offer kindness and understanding to yourself.
The GRR’s
G – Grounding
Pause. Breathe deeply. Get in touch with yourself through all of your senses and just be.
R – Releasing
Laugh. Sing. Move. Do activities to release the build up of stress chemicals in your body.
R – Recharging
Nature. Creativity. Fun. Do what brings you joy and tops up your feel good chemicals.
