If you've done exams this summer, you'll know that GCSE results day is just around the corner!
If you’re feeling unsure, nervous or worried about results day, that's completely normal.
To help you prepare for the big day we’ve got some top tips from teachers for you to watch, or if you prefer, scroll down for the top-10 list.
Teacher 1
Try your best not to worry as results day approaches. Make sure you're eating well and getting a good night sleep.
Teacher 2
Talk about how you're feeling.Be open with your parents and carers and your friends, about any worries you may have and how you're feeling.
Teacher 3
Make sure you plan for the day. So, find out what time your school opens.Find out what time you need to be there and make plans for afterwards so that you can celebrate too.
Teacher 4
Get an early night. Results day can be exhausting.Try to unwind by doing something nice with a friend. Why not make some summer plans together?
Teacher 5
Avoid social media.There's no doubt everyone will be talking about results day online. It's healthy to take a break and disconnect.Try reading one of your favourite books, or watching your favourite show, to help you avoid phone distractions.
Teacher 6
Invite someone to come with you on the day for support.You could ask a parent, guardian, sibling, or a friend. They can offer reassurance and celebrate your success on the day.Or, if you prefer to go alone - that's okay too!
Teacher 7
Don't compare.If you know you worked really hard for your results but your friend received higher ones, that doesn't make your achievement any less impressive. Comparing yourself will only make you feel worse.
Teacher 8
Be flexible. Unexpected results may spur you into discovering other options.Most schools will have a designated person who is trained in being able to signpost you in the direction that you want to go.
Teacher 9
If you don't get the results you wanted, there are plenty of other options.Remember, that there are trained staff on hand to give advice about the next steps.
Teacher 10
Be proud of your achievements.Exam results are important but they do not define you!You've worked really hard and whatever your results were, you should be proud of yourself and your achievements.
Ten take-home tips
Everyone is different, and how you prepare for the big day may be different to your friends.
Try picking one or two of our top-tips to help calm your nerves.
- Try your best not to worry
- Talk about how you’re feeling
- Plan for the day
- Get an early night
- Avoid social media
- Think about who you'd like to be with you when you receive your results
- Don’t compare
- Be flexible
- Don’t panic
- Be proud of your achievements
You’ve tried your best and whatever your results are, you should be proud of yourself and your achievements. Give yourself a pat on the back and enjoy celebrating with family and friends. After all, you’ve earned it!
We know that you may be feeling disheartened right now, but there are things you can do to improve the situation, but if you’re struggling, make sure you speak to a teacher or trusted adult to get some advice and support.
If you need support
You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you’re doing.
If you’re in need of in-the-moment support you can contact Childline, where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
There are more links to helpful organisations on BBC Action Line.
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