Exam stress sees peak in calls to Childline, new figures reveal

Childline Director Shaun Friel said: “Exam season can be a stressful time. Young people tell us about losing sleep, feeling guilty for taking breaks, and worrying about letting others down.”

Students feel pressure from all sides

Half of the young people contacting Childline were aged 12–15, with many describing feeling overwhelmed by pressure from themselves, parents, and schools. Alarmingly 11% of calls came from children aged 11 and under, while a further 39% of calls came from older teenagers, aged 16 - 18.

Young people shared that they felt torn between needing to relax and feeling guilty for stepping away from revision, while others compared themselves anxiously to friends.

“I feel physically sick I’m so stressed," said a 15-year-old girl from Scotland. "I keep thinking how much I’ll let everyone down if I fail.”

For many, the fear of failing exams sparked feelings of hopelessness about the future. One 16-year-old told Childline: “I already know that I’m going to fail. Everyone keeps saying to do my best, but I can’t when I feel like this.”

Others struggled with low motivation, convinced that even hours of revision wouldn’t change their results.

How can parents help?

Childline is encouraging parents and carers to check in regularly with their children during exam season.

“Recognise that their feelings are valid,” said the charity, “and remind them their self-worth is not defined by their grades.” Small actions like encouraging healthy coping strategies, creating realistic revision timetables, and staying positive can make a huge difference.

Other ways to help include talking to your child over text or on the phone if they don’t feel able to talk in person and suggesting healthy ways to cope like yoga, breathing exercises or mindfulness.

Tips for teens facing exam pressure

Childline’s advice for young people includes:

• Focus on positive thinking and challenge anxious thoughts.

• Talk to someone you trust about how you're feeling.

• Avoid comparing yourself to friends, especially on social media.

• Use creative outlets like writing or drawing to manage stress.

• Remember: exams are important, but they don't decide your future.

How to get help with exam stress

Childline’s website offers free resources, coping tools, and a safe space to share feelings anonymously with others going through the same struggles. Children can also call the helpline at: 0800 1111

As Shaun Friel emphasised: “Exam results don’t define your worth or future potential. Our counsellors are here for any young person who feels overwhelmed — anytime, day or night.”

Pics: Getty

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