How to support a bereaved young person through the exam season

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How to support a bereaved young person through the exam season:

 

Exams are a difficult time for many students, but for young people who are grieving, it can heighten emotions and stress even further. The process of grief can also cause a lack of concentration, memory issues, disrupted sleep, low energy levels and emotional unpredictability. All of these can make undertaking exams harder, and can make young people feel more pressured and overwhelmed.

Nelson’s Journey have put together some tips about how to support a bereaved young person through the exam period.

 

  1. Ask them how they are feeling and what they need

Start a conversation and ask them how they are feeling about their upcoming exams

  • How do you feel about your exams?
  • Do you have any worries?
  • What can I do to help?

 

  1. Encourage self-care

Speak to them about ways they may be able to look after their wellbeing throughout the exam period. This may be having their favourite meal for after an exam, watching a movie together or a day out with friends on the weekend. By helping the young person to plan some things they will look forward to, it may help them to get through the busy exam season.

 

  1. Support them to maintain routine

Exams are a big adjustment and change for a young person, and a time of new challenges. Maintaining routines around sleep, meals, and general structure of activities can help with stability and lower stress levels of the young person.

 

  1. Help them to remember their person

Provide them with opportunities to talk about and remember their special person. Ask them how they would like to do this, and give them the time, space and opportunity to do so.

 

  1. Support them after exams

If an exam has not gone as well as they would have liked, the young person may feel upset or deflated. Reassure them that they tried their best, and that is what matters the most.

 

  1. Seek support

Consider contacting and involving the school or college to let them know if the young person is struggling, so they can help and contact the exam board if necessary.

 

If you need further guidance on supporting a bereaved child through the exam season, please contact Nelson’s Journey’s Support Line on 01603 431788.