Students encouraged to take care of themselves during this time

Leaving Certificate results are making their way into the eager young hands of the record 136,160 students who sat the exams this year.

Consequently, a wave of various and perhaps contrasting emotions are washing over the country’s secondary schools and also the homes of these young people.

Some will be overjoyed at the results they have achieved, others will be satisfied and for some they may be feeling disappointed and perhaps overwhelmed.

For many who work with young people and indeed parents perhaps it is the last cohort that will be taking much of their attention over the coming days and weeks.

At the outset it is important to stress that no one is defined by results that they receive in a group of examinations.

However, the Leaving Cert takes on a life of its own particularly around the sitting of the exams and the releasing of the results, which the mental health charity, Turn2Me recognise.

According to the mental health charity the period leading up to results day can be an incredibly stressful and anxious time for students. The pressure to perform well and the fear of disappointing their parents or getting less points than their peers can take a significant toll on mental health.

The charity wants to remind students that exam results are just one part of their life journey and do not determine their worth or future success.

“At Turn2Me, we understand the intense emotions that come with waiting for exam results,” said Fiona O’Malley, CEO. “It’s important for students to remember that their Leaving Cert results are not the final word on their abilities or potential. There are many paths to success, and this is just one step along the way. If things didn’t go well for you on the day, there are so many alternative routes into different careers including conversion courses,” she added.

Turn2Me is offering free online counselling sessions and peer support groups, to help young people navigate the stress and anxiety associated with exam results. The charity is encouraging students to reach out if they need someone to talk to or if they’re feeling overwhelmed.

“Our message to students is simple: You are more than a set of grades,” Ms O’Malley said. “While exams are important, they do not define who you are or what you can achieve in life. It’s okay to feel disappointed if you didn’t get the results you were hoping for, but it’s also important to keep things in perspective and know that there are many opportunities ahead,” she added.

Turn2Me’s free online mental health services are available to students and their families who may need support, offering a safe and confidential space to discuss their feelings. The charity’s team of professional counsellors is equipped to help students manage their emotions, build resilience, and explore their options moving forward.

“Your mental health is just as important as any academic achievement,” said Ms O’Malley. “We encourage students to take care of themselves during this time, seek support if they need it, and remember that their value and potential extend far beyond their exam results,” she added.

Students and their families can access Turn2Me’s free mental health services by visiting the charity’s website at www.turn2me.ie.

Meanwhile the HSE are encouraging Leaving Cert students to celebrate safely tonight and are also encouraging parents to have a brief, focused conversation about personal safety and alcohol and drug use with their children.