GCSE Stress, A Levels and Anxiety in Young People

Supporting young people through GCSEs, A Levels and uncertainty about the future

This time of year can feel particularly intense for many young people.

With GCSEs and A Levels underway, there can be pressure around revision, deadlines and exams themselves. For some young people, this may feel manageable. For others, it can feel far heavier.

And often, it is not only about the exams.

For many young people, this period can bring bigger worries about what comes next.

Moving from school to college.
College to university.
Apprenticeships.
Work.
Or simply not knowing what they want to do yet.

These transitions can bring a lot of uncertainty at a time when young people may already feel pressure to have everything figured out.

They may be comparing themselves to friends, worrying about disappointing parents or teachers, or feeling as though these exams will determine their entire future.

That can feel like a lot to carry.

How stress may show up

Exam stress does not always look the way people expect.

Some young people may openly talk about feeling anxious.

Others may become quieter, more withdrawn or irritable.

You may notice:

• difficulty sleeping
• changes in appetite
• avoiding revision altogether
• low motivation
• headaches or feeling run down
• tearfulness
• self-doubt
• feeling overwhelmed by decisions about the future

Some young people may appear as though they do not care, when underneath they may be feeling anxious, stuck or frightened about what comes next.

What can help

While it can be tempting to focus entirely on revision plans and productivity, emotional support matters too.

Sometimes young people need reassurance that their worth is not measured by exam results.

They may need space to talk about fears around failure, friendships changing, leaving school, or uncertainty about the future.

As a parent or carer, it can help to:

• listen without immediately trying to fix things
• encourage regular breaks and rest
• help maintain realistic routines around sleep and eating
• remind them that there are often multiple pathways forward
• reduce unnecessary pressure where possible

And sometimes simply acknowledging that this period feels difficult can go a long way.

When extra support may help

Some young people find it difficult to open up to those closest to them.

They may worry about disappointing others, feel pressure to appear as though they are coping, or simply struggle to put their feelings into words.

Counselling can offer a calm, confidential space where young people can talk openly, make sense of what they are feeling, and feel heard without judgement or pressure.

Support for young people in Ash and online

I offer counselling for young people aged 11+ in Ash (GU12), near Aldershot, as well as online across the UK.

If you feel your young person may benefit from additional support during exam season or times of transition, please feel free to get in touch to arrange a free introductory call.