How to cope with results day stress

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Stress is completely normal and something most students go through, especially on BTEC or A-Level results day. In fact, picking up your results can be more stressful than taking exams!

So, we thought we’d help you out with some handy tips on how to cope and keep calm for the occasion.

Look after yourself

It's vitally important to not lose yourself in a cycle of stress and panic, something students understandably will go through. Take a moment, just five minutes every day to sit and do nothing, or do something you really love to ease your mind. Just because results day is coming up doesn’t mean it’s all you have to think about. Eat properly, keep up a social routine, and don’t lock yourself away.

>> Read more advice on wellbeing.

Value your sleep

Losing sleep over your A-Level or BTEC results is quite common and really impacts your daily routine whether you notice it or not. Rather than indulging in late-night Netflix binges, focus on your sleep and try to get a good night’s rest. Pillow sprays and natural aromas are a great help for this, and your day-to-day energy and stress levels will improve.

Switch off your devices

It’s easy to constantly check your phone for updates or emails that might come through about results day, but you'll likely end up relentlessly staring at your phone in anticipation and feeling anxious whenever a notification comes through. Try and do other things that don’t involve technology, like reading a book, spending time with your family or simply going out. Switching off your phone can switch off your mind too.

Make a plan for the day

Results day itself can play on your mind, not just the idea of collecting results that impact your future. Planning out the day from start to finish can ease a proportion of this stress and let your mind relax. It’s one less thing to worry about in the morning, and gives you a bit of control too.

Have backup options

Some people will get the results they want, others won’t. Having a backup plan (whether or not you use it) gives you another option and gives you another factor to control rather than panic about. It's worth spending some time researching Clearing courses at different entry levels just in case things don't go to plan and you don't get the grades you need for your offers.

Don’t collect your results alone

Walking up and getting your envelope is definitely an individual experience, but a lot of your friends are going through the exact same thing. Going together and sharing the big day will be memorable for all, and no matter what the piece of paper says, you know your mates have your back.

Talk it out

It's okay to feel stressed or worried, and everyone around you understands this. They're there for you to talk to and will be as relieved as you are to air your concerns, as it's just another step to destress. What good has bottling things up ever done to someone?

Distract yourself

Like we mentioned before, results day doesn’t have to be the only thing on your mind. Indulge in your passions, hang out with your mates, chill out with your pets. It doesn’t matter what you do, just do something, and the worry will drift away.

Remember it's out of your control

When all's said and done, your results are already determined and this is pretty much set in stone. It's out of your control, and that's okay because some things always are. What's important is your response, as how you deal with a situation is how it'll impact you. You've done your best and that's all that matters, so go with the flow and enjoy your summer without unnecessary worry.