How to Support Your Child’s Mental Health During Exam Season

Published on October 9th, 2025 by RWC Education Ltd

Exam season can be a stressful time for students, whether they’re tackling GCSEs, A-Levels, SATs, or mock exams. As a parent, you play a vital role in helping your child navigate this high-pressure period while safeguarding their mental health. With mental health awareness at an all-time high in 2025, here are practical strategies to support your child, reduce anxiety, and foster resilience during exams.

Create a Balanced Study Schedule

A structured study plan can ease your child’s stress by breaking revision into manageable chunks. Work with them to design a timetable that balances study sessions, breaks, and downtime. Aim for 25–50-minute study blocks followed by 5–10-minute breaks to maintain focus without burnout. Tools like Google Calendar or apps like Forest can help keep them on track. Ensure the schedule includes time for hobbies, exercise, and sleep—crucial for mental well-being.

Encourage Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Mindfulness can help your child manage anxiety and stay grounded. Introduce them to apps like Headspace or Calm, which offer guided meditations and breathing exercises tailored for teens. Even five minutes a day can make a difference. Encourage simple practices like deep breathing (e.g., the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8) before a study session or exam. Physical activities like yoga or a short walk can also reduce stress hormones.

Foster Open Communication

Create a safe space for your child to share their worries. Ask open-ended questions like, “How are you feeling about your exams?” rather than focusing solely on grades. Listen without judgment and validate their emotions. If they’re struggling, reassure them that it’s okay to ask for help. Regular check-ins, perhaps over dinner or a walk, can strengthen trust and help you spot early signs of stress.

Watch for Warning Signs of Burnout

Burnout can sneak up during exam season. Look out for signs like:

• Persistent irritability or mood swings

• Trouble sleeping or excessive fatigue

• Loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy

• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomachaches

• Declining academic performance or avoidance of study

If you notice these, gently encourage your child to take a break and discuss their feelings. Persistent symptoms may warrant professional support—more on that below.

Tap Into Professional Resources

The UK offers excellent mental health resources for young people. The NHS provides advice on managing exam stress through its website (www.nhs.uk/mental-health), including tips for parents and teens. YoungMinds (www.youngminds.org.uk) offers a parent helpline and resources tailored to exam anxiety. If your child needs more support, consider contacting their school’s pastoral team or a GP for referrals to counselling services.

Consider Tutoring for Structured Support

Tutoring can be a game-changer during exam season, providing tailored academic support that reduces stress. A tutor can help your child master challenging topics, build confidence, and develop effective study techniques. Unlike group classes, one-on-one sessions focus on your child’s unique needs, whether they’re in mainstream school or home-educated. Our tutoring services, for example, offer personalised revision plans and exam strategies, helping students feel prepared and in control. This structured support can ease pressure and boost mental resilience.

Promote Healthy Habits

Encourage habits that support mental and physical health:

• Sleep: Aim for 8–10 hours per night. Avoid late-night cramming, which disrupts memory consolidation.

• Nutrition: Provide balanced meals with brain-boosting foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3-rich fish.

• Exercise: Even 20 minutes of activity, like a bike ride or dance session, can lift mood and improve focus.

• Screen Time: Limit non-study screen time to prevent overstimulation, especially before bed.

• 
  

Lead by Example

Your child looks to you for cues on handling stress. Model healthy coping strategies by managing your own stress calmly—whether through exercise, mindfulness, or open communication. Show them it’s okay to take breaks and prioritise well-being over perfection.

Why This Matters

Exam stress is a universal challenge, but with the right support, your child can thrive academically and emotionally. By fostering open communication, encouraging healthy habits, and tapping into resources like tutoring or YoungMinds, you can help them navigate this season with confidence. Our tutoring services are here to lighten the load, offering personalised support for students aged 10–18, whether they’re in school or home-educated. Let’s work together to make exam season a time of growth, not stress.

For more tips or to explore our tutoring options, visit our website or contact us today!