Childline urges young people in Northern Ireland to seek help amid surge in exam stress

As exam season intensifies across the UK, Childline is encouraging young people in Northern Ireland to seek support amid a notable rise in stress-related concerns.

The NSPCC-run service revealed that between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, it delivered 1,647 counselling sessions nationwide where exam or revision stress was specifically mentioned — averaging 137 sessions per month.

The pressure facing students reached a peak in May 2024, during which 359 counselling sessions focused on exam stress were delivered — over two and a half times the monthly average and accounting for 22% of all sessions that month.

With service bases in Belfast and Foyle, Childline is issuing a clear message to young people: you are not alone, and confidential help is available around the clock.

“At Childline we know that exam season can be a stressful time for children and young people. We consistently see a spike in contacts about exam stress in May, when exam season begins,” said Shaun Friel, Director of Childline.

Shaun Friel, Director of Childline in Northern Ireland

“Young people are telling our counsellors about losing sleep over exams, feeling pressured by themselves and family members, and struggling to balance revision with other important parts of their lives. Many feel guilty about taking breaks and worry about letting people down if they don’t achieve the results they hope for.

“We want every young person to remember that exam results don’t define their worth or future potential. Childline’s trained counsellors are available around the clock for anyone feeling overwhelmed.”

Age Breakdown and Pressures Reported

Childline data shows that of the sessions where age was known:

• 50% were with young people aged 12–15

• 39% were aged 16–18

• 11% were aged 11 and under

Common concerns raised included:

• Self-imposed pressure to achieve high grades

• External expectations from parents and teachers

• Difficulty balancing revision with hobbies and friendships

• Sleep disturbances and anxiety over potential failure

• Guilt associated with taking breaks

• Comparisons to peers’ revision habits and mock results

• Feelings of hopelessness about the future

• Reports of dismissive attitudes from adults towards exam stress

Voices of Northern Ireland’s Youth

Anonymous testimonials from young people highlight the emotional weight they are carrying during the exam period.

“I already know that I’m going to fail. I’m going to let everyone down. It will be 11 years of school totally wasted. Everyone keeps saying just to do my best, but I can’t do my best when I feel like this,” said a 16-year-old girl.

“The anxiety about exams is making it hard to get any good sleep. I know some of it is the goals I’ve set myself, but my teachers expect me to get good grades too. All my friends are stressed about the same thing so can’t help and my parents don’t know what to do,” shared a 15-year-old.

“Do you ever know if you’ve done enough revision? I’m really worried what will happen if I don’t get the grades to go to college. I’m a practical person not an exam person, but I have to do well in exams to even get into practical courses,” said a 15-year-old boy.

Expert Tips to Manage Exam Stress

To help students and families, Childline offers a variety of practical tips:

For Children and Young People:

• Think positively: Reframe anxious thoughts with calming, affirming statements.

• Be honest: Talk about pressure, especially from family or peers.

• Avoid comparisons: Focus on your own progress, not others’.

• Express feelings: Use art, journaling or Childline’s Art Box.

• Create a realistic revision plan: Incorporate breaks and rest.

• Prioritise wellbeing: Eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep.

• Maintain perspective: Remember that one set of exams doesn’t define your future.

For Parents and Carers:

• Reassure your child of your support, in person or by text.

• Validate their feelings and encourage open dialogue.

• Explore coping methods together, such as mindfulness.

• Emphasise that their value is not tied to grades.

“The Childline website offers practical advice on positive thinking, healthy coping strategies, and maintaining perspective during exam time. Young people can also find comfort in connecting with peers through our monitored message boards, where they can share experiences and support each other,” added Mr Friel.

Support Available 24/7

Childline is urging any young person feeling overwhelmed to get in touch. Support is available 24/7 by phone on 0800 1111 or online at www.childline.org.uk, which also hosts resources, message boards and 1-2-1 chat services.