Where to get extra support if you’re struggling
It’s completely normal to find GCSEs stressful and you don’t have to handle everything on your own.
If revision, exam pressure, or day-to-day life is starting to feel too much, there are places you can go for support. Reaching out is a strong, positive step.
Below are trusted organisations and resources designed to help young people with stress, anxiety, low mood, and anything else that’s affecting how you feel.
📘 YoungMinds – Support for Your Mental Health
YoungMinds is a charity that supports young people with their mental health. Their website has advice on dealing with stress, anxiety, low confidence, school pressure and more.
You can explore their help guides here:
👉 https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/
If things feel overwhelming and you need urgent support right now, you can text YM to 85258 for free, 24/7 support from trained volunteers.
🌱 Mind – How to Cope With Exam Stress
Mind provides clear advice on understanding exam stress and how to manage it.
Read their exam stress guide here:
👉 https://www.mind.org.uk/for-young-people/feelings-and-experiences/exam-stress/
It’s honest, practical, and relatable.
💛 Childline – Someone to Talk to, Anytime
Childline offers confidential support for anyone under 19. You can speak to a counsellor about anything that’s worrying you, big or small.
- Call 0800 1111 (free)
- Chat online: https://www.childline.org.uk/get-support/
It’s a safe space to talk when you need someone to listen.
🏥 NHS – Mental Health Advice and Local Support
The NHS offers guidance on mental health, stress management, and when to seek help.
Useful starting points:
- Mental health for young people: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/children-and-young-adults/
- Urgent support: https://www.nhs.uk/urgenthelp
You can also talk to your GP if stress, anxiety, or low mood is affecting your daily life.
💬 Speak to Someone You Trust
You don’t have to use a charity or service to get help. Talking to someone you know can make a huge difference.
You might want to speak to:
- a parent or carer
- a teacher or form tutor
- a school counsellor or pastoral lead
- a friend you feel safe with
Sharing how you feel is often the first step to feeling better.
🌟 Remember
You deserve support, and you’re not supposed to handle everything alone.
Whether you want quick advice, someone to listen, or urgent help, there are people and organisations ready to support you.
Reaching out isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of strength. And you’re doing the right thing by looking after yourself.