Whether you’ve finished your A-levels or still have a few exams to go, many students find themselves anxiously thinking about results day and what their grades might mean for the future.
With this in mind, Study Dog – an online learning platform supporting students with hundreds of resources – spoke to award-winning psychologist Dr Lalitaa Suglani to explore why results day anxiety is so common, and how students (and parents) can manage it in a healthy way.
- What should students do to switch off between now and results day?
“Make time for things that truly help you relax and feel good. This could be spending time with friends, getting outdoors, exploring a creative hobby, or enjoying a book. We’re lucky to have longer evenings and warmer weather – make the most of them.”
“Try not to let conversations or thoughts about results dominate your days. One helpful method is to use a “worry window” – allow yourself 10 minutes per day to think about your results, then move on with your day.”
“The key is to stay busy in ways that bring you joy – this is your well-earned time to unwind after months of hard work.”
- How can parents support their children ahead of results day?
“The most helpful thing parents can do is create a calm, non-judgmental space where their child feels supported, not pressured. Make it clear that you’re proud of them regardless of the outcome and that their grades won’t change how much you care.”
“Encourage healthy distractions and check in regularly, but avoid fixating on exam results in conversation. Most importantly, listen without judgment and remind your child that, whatever happens, there are always options and a way forward.”
Leo Carr, founder of Study Dog – commented on the pressures A-level students find today: “A lot of students feel intense pressure during exam season all the way up to results day.”
There’s a tendency to keep replaying what went wrong instead of recognising how much effort they put in. Finding study methods that suit the individual can help build confidence, which is the goal we’re aiming for at Study Dog. However, it’s just as important for students to remember to take a step back, rest, and look after their mental wellbeing.
- How can students cope with results day anxiety?
“Start by accepting that anxiety is a normal response to uncertainty – questioning whether you’ve done enough, fearing failure, or replaying past answers. It’s a psychological ‘hangover’ from weeks or months of stress.”
“Rather than trying to push the feeling away, acknowledge it and then try grounding yourself in the present.”
“Talking about your worries can also help — anxious thoughts are much louder in silence. And most importantly, keep perspective: one exam period does not define your intelligence, your potential, or your future.”
“Mindfulness techniques – such as deep breathing, journaling, or light physical activity – can ease anxious thoughts. You might also try sensory grounding by paying attention to what you can see, hear, feel, and smell.”
“Avoid getting caught up in endless “what if” scenarios. Focus on the things you can control, like your daily routine. Staying busy can help keep anxiety in check.”
- How would you advise students to prepare for results day?
“The best way to prepare is to recognise that results day may trigger a range of emotions – and that’s completely normal. It helps to plan ahead: know what time your results will be released, how you’ll access them, and who you’d like to be with when you open them.”
“Having a supportive person by your side – whether that’s a parent, friend, or teacher – can really help.”
“It’s also important to prepare for different outcomes. Remind yourself that no single result defines your worth or your future. Everyone’s journey is different, and your grades do not determine your value as a person.”
