After an incredibly challenging year, Samaritans is calling for students and parents to put wellbeing first this exam results day.
In these uncertain times, the charity wants to remind anyone receiving their grades to look after their wellbeing and seek help if they are struggling.
Izabel is one of hundreds of students expecting her GCSE results without sitting any exams this year. However, Izabel has been inspired by her mum, a Samaritans volunteer in Yeovil, to look after her wellbeing throughout this period of uncertainty.
“When we were told that our mock exam results would play a big part in our final grades, this made me really worried, but I managed to process these thoughts and have started to work towards my A Levels. I think that it has been extremely important to prioritise my wellbeing during these strange times - taking a few minutes a day to be aware of how I’m feeling. I have also been keeping myself busy, helping to home school my foster siblings, baking, and going on socially distanced walks with my friends. I’ve tried to be there for my friends as much as I can during this difficult time, as it feels good to know they have someone to talk to.”
Izabel
Whether it’s with a friend, family member or a helpline like Samaritans, the charity wants students to open up and talk to somebody if they are struggling.
Folkestone Samaritans volunteer, Anne Gilchrist knows the power of talking and how it can help people when they are finding things difficult.
“It’s really important to talk to someone you trust about how the exam process has made you feel - even those who've had good results can feel an increased pressure to do better and better. Talking about it is a good way to make sense of how you are feeling and will give you a sense of release.”
Samaritans volunteer, Anne Gilchrist
Samaritans’ volunteers are available around the clock, seven days a week providing emotional support and a listening ear to anyone who needs help.
Anyone can call Samaritans for free on 116 123 or email [email protected] for emotional support from a trained volunteer. Or visit samaritans.org for online self-help tools and resources.