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How To Make Sure You Don't Stress About Your A Level Results

How To Make Sure You Don't Stress About Your A Level Results

Your dread, worry and panic is normal but please calm down for your own sake - and here's some useful advice.

Rebecca Shepherd

Rebecca Shepherd

Today is A-level results day, not to remind you or anything. Well hopefully we're not reminding you, but if we are - you're welcome.

You've probably had the shittest sleep of your life, waking up every hour to check whether 'it's time yet', that's if you even had any sleep. We've been there, trust us - that's normal.

You might be dreading walking in that exam hall to pick up your envelope, especially if the girl/guy who revised every. single. day for the last decade yet still moaned after every exam is there with a big grin on their face.

Because there's always that one person who will do a scout around the room to ask what people got and then tell you how amazing they did. Not that they were asked.

We're not bitter - honestly.

PA

Anyway, that's enough reminiscing - this is about you. If you're worrying, that's perfectly normal. Yes, it's easier said but bear with...

According to Chronicle Live, Northumbria University psychology expert, Sandy Wolfson, says that dwelling on and vividly picturing the worst possible outcome is a common reaction to stressful situations.

Let's face it, the worse you think the outcome is - the better it'll hopefully be. Fuck, don't listen to us - listen to Sandy.

She said: "It's a total distraction, it doesn't do anybody any good, but it's something we all do.

PA

"It's helpful for people to be aware of this tendency and try to avoid doing it too much, because at this point you're in a situation where you don't have any control over the results."

But as you're on the bus or the car to college, Sandy says that the best thing to do is close your eyes and imagine yourself somewhere pleasant, like on a beach or at the top of a beautiful mountain. Just go to your happy place.

PA

Then purposefully tense all the muscles in your body and then let them all relax - repeat. You could even start reading this in a peaceful tone.

Dr Wolfson also advises that puzzles is a good way forward to keep you distracted. Things like sudoku are best because they're simple yet absorbing and stop your brain thinking about any nightmare outcomes.

PA

If you're still reading this absolutely convinced you're failing and your life is going to complete shit. Take it first hand - clearing really ain't that bad. Trust.

One blogger, Save The Student, said: "I ended up in university Clearing twice," adding: "Yet somehow I ended up graduating from a subject I love on a scholarship at one of the best courses in the country.

"And now I've even managed to get a job on TV. Quite frankly, all I need now is a blue tick on Twitter and all my life accomplishments are in the bag."

Well that's one way of looking at it.

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Most importantly, look after your mental health. Your self-worth isn't based on your exam results. Many people say 'your results won't matter in five years' time' - even though they might really matter now, it's important to keep perspective.

Life is along road with many twists and turns. Stay positive.

If that's not what you want to hear then maybe this is - there is always a way. Always another way to get into university or an apprenticeship scheme, or a career path. You're not limited, do your research. The most important thing is to have motivation, dedication and passion.

And remember, life is just too fucking short. Also - smile and nod at the bragging dick in the exam hall. It's for the best.

PA

If you are suffering from any mental health issues around loneliness or in general, it's always good to reach out.

U OK M8?' is an initiative from TheLADbible in partnership with a range of mental health charities which will feature a series of films and stories to raise awareness of mental health.

Explore more here and don't suffer in silence. Reach out. It's the brave thing to do.

MIND: 0300 123 3393.

Samaritans:116 123.

CALM: Outside London 0808 802 5858, inside London 0800 58 58 58.

Mental Health Foundation.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: Community, UK, Education