Support during exam season
May 13, 2025
Exams can be a challenging time. If you’re feeling worried about your exams, you are not alone, but the stress and pressure can feel overwhelming.
It’s important to look after yourself before and during exam season. Be kind to yourself and take time for regular breaks when revising.
If you can, use your breaks to take your mind off your work – this could be by going for a walk with family or friends, listening to music, enjoying your favourite snack, or doing some exercise.
If you’re struggling, speaking to someone, such as a parent, a friend, or a teacher, can help. It’s likely that your friends will be experiencing the same worries so try speaking to them about how you feel. Your teachers can also provide useful tips for revision, how to prepare, and any topics you may be struggling with.
Sometimes you might need some extra help. There are support services available who can help, no matter how big or small your concerns are.
Kooth
Kooth is a free online counselling and wellbeing support service, which is available to all young people aged 11-25 in Portsmouth. Young people can chat to the team via live chat or message. The site is available 24/7 with counselling available 12pm – 10pm on weekdays and 6pm – 10pm on weekends.
Place2Be
Place2Be have created a guide to help you navigate exam season, including tips and advice for revision and how to spot the signs of stress here. You can explore their website here.
Mind
Mind has lots of useful advice on their website, including information on exam stress and how it might be affecting you here. They also have some tips on how to manage stress and where you can find support.
Young Minds
Young Minds offer helpful advice on their website to help you cope with stress in the lead-up to and during exam season, including tips from young people. Explore their support for exam stress here.
Anyone aged 16 and over can call the Portsmouth Mental Health Hub for self-care advice and connection to mental health and community support services. Call 0300 123 6621 Monday to Friday (8am-6pm) or chat online at www.mentalhealthinportsmouth.co.uk/contact
