Dealing With Dissapointment

For many students, opening the results envelope is a time for celebration, but for others the experience can be less positive. The stress, anxiety and sleepless nights in the lead-up to sitting any exam inevitably brings with it a rollercoaster of emotions, followed by what can feel like a frustratingly long wait to get those results. Excited, apprehensive, confused, angry, disappointed - it’s perfectly normal to experience some or all of these feelings. How you feel is related to expectations – your own, those of your parents, teachers, and also your peers. Here are a few scenarios you may face, and some tips on how to deal with them.

I didn’t do well, it’s the end of the world!

No, it isn’t. This is just one set of exam results, and while it feels like a defining moment in your or your child's life, to date, it's important to understand that these results only represent the first step in the journey to future success.

But all my friends did really well…

Every child is different, and while it’s really hard to not compare personal performance against that of others, just getting through an exam is a massive achievement in itself; and all that study hasn’t gone to waste. Instead, celebrate what you or they did achieve.

I don’t know what to do next

Talking it through with someone you or they trust, like a parent, other family members or friends, is extremely helpful.

Getting advice from a teacher or careers counsellor about your options is the next step. Being surrounded by supportive people is key.

I don’t want to go out or see anyone…

It's important to take some time to reflect on the situation, but retreating from everyday life and feeling miserable isn't the answer. Go to the movies, hit the mall (with friends or as a family), do some

exercise to de-stress – it really does help!

WHAT ELSE CAN PARENTS DO?

• Keep calm – a calm parent = a calm(er) child

• Avoid bland reassurances and, conversely, don’t pile on the pressure

• Plan some kind of favourite activity or distraction together

• Be available to talk whenever they’re ready to do so.