Exam season can be an incredibly stressful time for teenagers, often leading to feelings of pressure, fear of failure, and struggles with time management. But how can parents distinguish between typical exam stress and something more serious?
To help navigate this challenging period, we spoke with Paula Bosha, psychotherapist and clinical lead at Priory, who has identified seven key warning signs that a teen’s exam stress may require further attention.
While some stress is a normal part of the exam experience, it’s crucial for parents to be aware of potential indicators that their child might be struggling. These signs, as outlined by Bosha, can offer valuable insights into a teenager’s emotional well-being during this demanding time.
The psychotherapist, who has helped develop Priory’s new exam stress workshop therapy program, offers practical advice and support for parents seeking to help their teens navigate exam-related anxieties. Her expertise provides a framework for understanding and addressing the challenges faced by young people during this critical period.
1. Increased anxiety
Exam stress can sometimes negatively affect mental health and increase symptoms of anxiety.
“Presenting with a lot of worrying about exams, feeling overwhelmed, panicky and stressed are some signs to look out for,” says Bosha. “Also, they may be struggling to cope with the demands of exam preparation and feeling as if they cannot manage it.”
2. Lack of motivation and enthusiasm
“They may experience a difficulty in starting or continuing tasks, and a sense of feeling overwhelmed or uninterested in things that were once enjoyable,” says the psychotherapist.
3. Avoidance behaviour
“Teens might avoid doing any revision, procrastinate or refuse to engage in any exam preparations and miss school,” highlights Bosha.
4. Negative thoughts and self criticism
Negative thoughts might be a sign of a bigger issue like depression.
“This includes feeling like a failure, doubting their abilities, or having negative self talk and catastrophising,” explains the psychotherapist.
5. Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
“Teens might struggle to focus on tasks, even those they usually find easy, experience memory lapses or difficulty recalling information,” notes Bosha.
6. Physiological changes
“Physiological changes to look out for include an increased heart rate, sweating, racing heartbeat, shortness of breath,” highlights Bosha. “They may also experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach aches.”
7. Engaging in unhealthy coping mechanisms
“Another flag red flag to look out for is resorting to unhealthy behaviours such as self-harm, substance abuse, or excessive eating,” says Bosha.
If you’ve noticed that your teen is consistently showing one or more of the signs mentioned above, here are some ways you can offer support…
Create a supportive environment
Make it a habit to check in with them regularly and listen with empathy and attention.
“Encourage open communication, allowing your child to express their concerns and feelings about exams,” advises Bosha. “Be a good listener and offer reassurance.”
Establish a study routine
“Help your child organise their time with a balanced study schedule,” recommends Bosha. “Break down tasks into manageable chunks and allow for regular breaks.”
Promote healthy habits
A good night’s sleep and balanced diet does wonders for the brain.
“Ensure your child is getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying physically active,” says Bosha. “A healthy body helps support a clear mind.”
Offer emotional support
“Be empathetic to your child’s feelings and validate their stress,” advises Bosha. “Sometimes, simply offering words of encouragement can make a big difference.”
Encourage stress-relief activities
“Suggest activities that can help your child unwind, like deep breathing exercises, meditation, or light physical activity such as walking or stretching,” recommends Bosha.
Limit pressure
“While it is important to encourage your child to do their best, avoid placing excessive pressure on them,” advises Bosha. “Let them know that their best effort is all that is needed.”
Recognise if they are really struggling
If your child is facing significant challenges, they may require extra support.
“This could involve visiting the GP or seeking out additional resources to help them with the issues they are struggling with,” says Bosha.
“Let your child know they can always contact a supportive charity such as ChildLine or the Samaritans anonymously by telephone or via a web chat if they need a confidential discussion.”
