Rise in exam-related stress calls to Childline

Credit: PA

New figures from ChildLine reveal nearly 100 children from Wales are calling the charity as they struggle to cope with the pressure of exam stress.

The charity said it delivered 3,135 counselling sessions on exam stress in 2016/17 - a rise of 11% on the previous year.

Girls in Wales were far more likely than boys to contact Childline for help.

It said young people are telling counsellors exam stress can contribute to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, excessive crying, low self-esteem, self-harming and suicidal thoughts, or even make pre-existing mental health conditions worse.

Credit: PA

The NSPCC has the following advice for young people taking exams:

  • Make sure you take regular breaks from revising and do some exercise

  • Go to bed at a reasonable time and try and get some sleep

  • Try to think positively - even if you don't feel like it, a positive attitude will help you during your revision

  • Remember that everyone's different - try not to compare yourself to your friends.

The NSPCC has also issued advice for parents and carers to help ease exam stress:

  • Don't place unnecessary pressure on your children to gain certain grades.

  • · Encourage children to take regular breaks, eat snacks and exercise.

  • Help them revise by leaving them the space and time to do so.

  • Be supportive and help alleviate their worries by talking to them.

  • Advice for teachers:

  • · Facilitate classroom discussions to get students talking about exam stress

  • · Encourage students to take regular breaks from studying for exams

  • · Encourage students to talk to you or other teachers about exam stress

Childline can be contacted for free, confidential support and advice, 24 hours a day on 0800 1111 or at www.childline.org.uk