Managing Stress on Results Day

August can be a stressful time for many, as A‑level results are released across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For students, results day can feel like a make‑or‑break moment, often bringing stress, anxiety and uncertainty — and these feelings can affect families too.

At CPSL Mind, we want to support your mental health during this period by sharing practical ways to manage A‑level results stress. And remember, if things ever feel overwhelming, reaching out to someone you trust — whether a friend or family member — can make a real difference.

Remind yourself that results are just one of the many milestones in  life, and they do not define you or your abilities.

Why not engage in mindfulness exercises? Breathing techniques and meditation help regulate your thoughts and bring you back to present thoughts.

If you notice your body sending signals of stress or anxiety, keep moving!

If you feel anxious, try engaging in physical activity. Exercise helps release those ‘feel good’ endorphins, which can lift your mood and ease anxiety.

A big one to keep in mind: limit social media use and avoid comparing yourself to others.

Try to steer clear of ‘doomscrolling’ through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok – it often leads to unrealistic comparisons and unnecessary stress. Instead, focus on your own journey and take pride in your achievements.  

Most importantly, take care of yourself. 

Prioritise self-care. Create a routine, get plenty of rest, eat nourishing meals, and stay hydrated. It is completely natural to feel a mix of emotions – tension, excitement, happiness, relief or disappointment. Allow yourself to experience them all; every feeling is valid.  

On that day, don’t go alone. 

Collecting your results will always feel nerve-wrecking. Whether you do it online or in person, it’s a good idea to arrange to meet up with someone before or afterwards so that you can support each other and, hopefully, celebrate your achievements together.