How to Support Your Stressed Teenager During Exam Season
With exam season upon us once again, your teenager’s mental health is more vulnerable than at any other time of year. The stress and pressure of revision, and taking the test itself, can take its toll on your teen’s wellness, so what can you do to help your child combat the unwanted stress that exam season brings?
Firstly, encourage them to get a good night’s sleep. You’ve probably heard this tip before, but that’s because it really does work. Tiredness can distort your teenager’s perception of what’s really going on. They may feel like everything is getting on top of them, and they’re falling behind, but and relaxing and sleeping will help them to start afresh the next day with a clear mind set. Suggest an early night or a bath to help them calm them down.
Also, give your children the plenty of brain-boosting food. On the day of the exam, make sure your child eats a good breakfast like porridge, peanut butter on toast or a banana. The energy from the food will help wake them up, and will keep them energised and their brain engaged. Plus, certain foods, like peanut butter and tuna, have been known to boost brain power, so give them a tuna sandwich every now and then when they’re revising.
When your teen is feeling disinterested in revising, try reminding them that it’s only a few weeks, and although it may seem a little intense now, that there is life after the exam. You could show some support by offering to help them revise, or test them. Your teenager may prefer to revise alone, but at least they’ll know that you’re there. One thing you might be able to help with is devising a revision timetable, putting aside more time to focus on areas your child particularly struggles with.
Finally, when you’ve let them know that you’re there for them; it’s time to give your teenager space. You may want to check up on your child to make sure that they’re actually revising, but most kids know the score. If it’s a week before the exam and they haven’t even picked up a book, maybe then you can give them a gentle push in the right direction. However, until then, assume your child knows what they’re doing. If they’re having a short break, don’t question it, it might be just what they need.
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