As exam season approaches in schools across the UK, many families find themselves grappling with rising stress levels. Whether it’s GCSEs, A-levels or end-of-year assessments, the pressure can feel nothing short of intense, sometimes heavy and always stressful – not just for students, but for the parents supporting them, too.
While the desire to do well is understandable, Living Well UK are encouraging a more balanced approach to exam preparation – one that prioritises both emotional wellbeing and academic success.
Holly Beedon, Clinical Lead at Living Well shared their top tips for parents to help prepare for this year’s exam season.
Spotting the signs of stress
Recognising early signs of stress can help prevent burnout and allows parents to step in with calm reassurance rather than last-minute fixes.
Beedon: explains: “Children often internalise the pressure around exams, even if it’s not directly stated. They might start withdrawing, becoming more irritable, or even begin complaining of headaches and stomach issues – all of which can be signals of an overarching anxiety. Sometimes these changes are subtle at first, so it’s worth checking in regularly in a way that doesn’t feel like an interrogation. Ask how they’re feeling, not just what they’re revising.”
Build in routine and rest
Creating a calm, structured environment can go a long way. Instead of cramming everything in, children tend to benefit from shorter, more consistent periods of revision with breaks built in. Adequate sleep and regular meals also play a critical role in helping them focus.
Holly adds: “Children don’t need to study for hours on end to do well. In fact, trying to revise for long periods without breaks can reduce how much information they actually retain. What helps most is having a rhythm to the day – time for study, time for rest, and time for switching off completely. That rhythm gives the brain space to recover and helps children feel more in control.
Introducing small, practical habits – like planning revision slots on a calendar or stepping outside for a walk after lunch – can help maintain the right energy and level of concentration across the exam period to not let things get too overwhelming.”
Stay calm, even when tensions rise
It’s normal for emotions to run high during exam season, but how adults respond can shape a child’s ability to manage stress – try to avoid arguments over revision tactics or predicted grades as they rarely help either side.
Holly expressed: “Children absorb more from our tone than our words. If parents are panicked or frustrated, even with good intentions, it can make children feel like they’re not doing enough. Try to avoid comparing them to siblings or friends. Instead, show them that you’re proud of their effort, not just the outcome. Sometimes, just making space for light-hearted conversations that aren’t about school can be a real pressure valve.
Being present, and letting your child know you’re there to be of support can often be more valuable than directly helping with revision.”
Look after yourself, too
Beedon reminds parents to care for their own wellbeing as well. Exam season can be draining for families, particularly those juggling other demands at work or home.
“This isn’t just a stressful time for students. Parents often carry their child’s stress alongside their own. It’s easy to feel like you should always be doing more, but actually, showing calm and compassion – both to your child and to yourself – can change the whole atmosphere in the home. Even short moments of rest or reflection can make a difference.
When parents look after their own mental health, they’re better placed to support their children without becoming overwhelmed.”
Keep a balanced perspective
Finally, families are encouraged to take a longer view. Exams matter – but they are not the full picture.
Beedon adds: “It’s natural to want children to succeed, but we have to keep in mind that these results are just one part of a much bigger journey. Remind your child that no grade defines them. Their kindness, their creativity, their ability to keep going even when it’s tough – those things count just as much, and they last much longer than any exam certificate.”
With the right support at home, exam season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By prioritising rest, emotional safety and realistic expectations, families can help young people face exams with greater confidence and calm.
If you’re worried about how exam stress is affecting your child – or your own mental health – support is available. Visit www.livingwelluk.org for free mental health advice, resources and local services.
