

If
you know any teenagers who are jittery over GCSEs, or anxious
about A-levels, these tips from the Mental Health Foundation offer
sound advice to help beat the exam blues
Dr
Andrew McCulloch, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation
says:
"It is really important for young people to look after their
mental health, especially when taking exams. Many young people
feel immense pressure to succeed, and it is entirely normally
to worry about exams and results. However, there are things that
you can do to help yourself through this stressful time."
10
Top Tips from the Mental Health Foundation
1. Make a revision plan
Making a plan will help you organise your revision into manageable
chunks. Leaving too little time for revision and having to "cram"
is a recipe for stress.
2. Take some time out
Short, regular breaks will help you to keep concentration levels
high.
3. Revise with friends
Listening and talking to friends can make a huge difference to
how you feel. Get together in a study group so you can have fun
whilst revising.
4. Talk to friends, family, teacher or youth
worker
If you are feeling low make sure you tell someone you trust. Once
they know how you feel they will be able to support you and it
will feel as if a weight has been lifted from your shoulders.
5. Eat regularly
How often you eat can make a big difference to your mood. Try
to eat three meals a day. If your blood sugar level drops, you'll
find it difficult to concentrate.
6. Eat and drink sensibly
Avoid too much coffee, tea and fizzy drinks - they give you a
quick 'high' followed by an energy slump. If you need extra energy
try eating a banana or nuts and raisins.
7. Exercise
Exercise is proven to improve mood. It triggers the release of
endorphins into your body making you almost instantly happier
and better able to concentrate. Get friends together for a game
of football or rounders!
8. Sleep
Make sure you get a good night's sleep. It is the time when the
body renews its energy store.
9. Laugh
A good laugh does wonders for the mind and soul. Watch a funny
film or your favourite comedy programme.
10. Once the exam is over - forget it!
Try not to spend too much time analysing your performance after
the exam. You can't change what you have already done so why worry?
For
general advice on how to keep well and to learn more about mental
health problems such as depression and anxiety visit www.mentalhealth.org