Keeping calm (and sort of chilled) for results day

Results Day. That one day of the year that keeps a good percentage of the youth on their toes for weeks! The day that can either determine everything or absolutely nothing. Here is a survival guide on how to manage your emotions awaiting this stressful day.

image ref: Elliot Hudson college

Taming the Stress Monster (aka my brain box)

First things first: stress. It’s like that annoying kid waiting for his SATS results, thinking the world will end if he doesn’t get a Level 5. (Spoiler alert: it won’t). Seriously though, find what chills you out. For me, it’s hitting the gym and blasting music, or just binge-watching a show with a massive bag of popcorn. Find your thing and do it.

• Remember that deep breaths are your mate. When you feel the panic rising, just breathe in for four, hold for four, and exhale for six. Repeat until you feel slightly less like a tightly wound spring.

I remember waiting for my GCSE maths results like it was yesterday. The anxiety was a proper monster under my bed. I was convinced I’d failed, picturing myself retaking the exam in a room full of 16-year-olds while I was, like, 40. The moment I opened that envelope and saw I’d passed, it was like the sun came out after a year of rain. Seriously, that feeling is unbeatable. So, trust me, I get the stress.

Summer sanity (or how to forget grades exist)

Summer is your time to shine and forget about grades for a hot minute. Get a job, volunteer, travel, or just spend quality time with your mates and family. I’m planning a road trip with my friends, if we can even get a car and honestly, I’m more excited about that than opening that results envelope. Getting your mind off things is crucial. And also, you’ll have some brilliant stories to tell when everyone’s back in school/college comparing summers.

Ditch the media hype (seriously, just do it)

The media loves to sensationalize results day. “Highest grades ever!” or “Grades plummeting!” Or watching videos of news reporters from the BBC or Good Morning Britain putting students on the spot to open their results. Don’t pay attention into it. Seriously, don’t. Every school and person is different, and these stories rarely reflect the full picture. It’s like believing everything you read on X – a recipe for disaster. Instead, focus on your own journey and block out all of the noises in your head by doing something you enjoy.

image ref: Warwickshire World

Leaning on your bubble (your support system)

Your mates and family are your rock. Talk to them, vent to them, and let them remind you that you’re brilliant, regardless of what those grades say. Surround yourself with people who lift you up and remind you of your strengths. Having a solid support system can make all the difference. I know I’ll be clinging to my family and mates for dear life! One thing I’ve learned is that your teachers and school staff are genuinely there to support you. They’re not judging you; they want to see you do well. If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, reach out to them. They’ve been through this countless times and can offer guidance and reassurance. Remember, they’re on your side.

Your path, your rules (no pressure)

Here’s the thing I’ve learned: everyone’s path is different. Some people know exactly what they want to do from age five, and others (like me) are still figuring it out. And that’s totally okay. There are so many different career paths and options out there, and your path can change a million times. Your A-Level or GCSE results are just one step, not the whole journey.

Read more on stress and anxiety from MindMate