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You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
Hi there,
Thank you for your letter. It sounds like you're coping with a huge amount right now. Youve really done the right thing by writing to me for some support. Its important not to try and cope with everything on your own.
Youve described this year as being the most stressful year of your life. Its completely understandable that being expected to sit over ten exams would feel like an incredible amount of pressure. Most young people can find exam times stressful. This stress can feel even more intense when you have to cope with other things on top of this.
It sounds like all your time is spent either studying/revising, or working. I can imagine all your energy is being used up in carrying such a huge responsibility and expectation.
Its not surprising you feel you have hit a wall. Its great you have the motivation and drive but its also important that you are able to look after yourself too. Constantly feeling like you are going full steam ahead can leave you feeling burnt out.
It sounds like all this pressure has been building up and now its impacting on your grades and being able to focus on revision. Its no wonder you are feeing exhausted with having to stay late most nights.
Youve said your family cant afford for you to quit your job you havent mentioned more about this or how many hours a week you are working. Sometimes families can struggle financially, but thats not something you should ever be made to feel responsible for. This should not be affecting your education. You can read a bit more about money worries here.
If you havent already, you might find it helpful to have a look at our pages about Exam stress and Homework and revision too.
Youve said you just need some help on how to stay focused for the next 2 months. It might be useful for you to think about what support you would need or any changes that could help you to feel more focused. Having a space to let everything out can feel like a good release. You can talk more about this with a ChildLine counsellor by calling 0800 1111, having a 1-2-1 online chat or by sending an email. It can also help to think about what advice you would give to a friend if they were in the exact same situation.
A lot of people worry about exam results and its natural to want to get high grades. I get the impression you feel worried about the possibility of having to reconsider career prospects. Whatever happens it doesnt always mean having to completely give up on the career you want. Often there are different options that can support you in getting there. We have more information about Your future and Making decisions which could help you.
Sometimes it can help to talk to a teacher you feel would be supportive about what your options might be. You can find out more about asking an adult for help.
I can hear the thought of struggling with depression again is terrifying for you. I can imagine it took a lot of strength to overcome it before. It does seem like you are carrying a huge weight. I think getting some extra support could really help you. You can get in contact with a ChildLine counsellor at any time talking through all of this and getting the support you deserve would be a great start.
Hope this letter has been helpful.
Take care,
Sam
You can talk privately to a counsellor online or call 0800 1111 for free.
You can ask me about anything you want, there's nothing too big or small. I read every single letter but I can only answer a few each week. My replies are published here on my page.