GCSEs can be tough. You’ve got revision, deadlines, and exams all coming at once, and it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. It's easy to think you have to push yourself non-stop to get the best grades, but the truth is, looking after your mindset is just as important as revising. When you're constantly stressed or overwhelmed, it becomes harder to concentrate, remember things, and perform at your best.
A healthy mindset helps you stay motivated, focused and emotionally balanced. It can make a big difference to how you experience the exam period — and how well you come out of it. If you're feeling the pressure, here are some ways to take care of your wellbeing and stay grounded during GCSE season:
1. Take Breaks That Actually Help
Studying for hours without a break might feel productive, but your brain needs time to rest. Try the Pomodoro method: 25 minutes of focused revision, then a 5-minute break. After four rounds, take a longer break. In your break, step away from your desk - stretch, grab a snack, get some fresh air.
Only got 10 minutes? Try this quick stretch session from Joe Wicks – perfect for a reset and getting your body moving.
2. Get Some Sleep (Seriously)
It’s tempting to stay up late cramming, but sleep helps your memory and focus way more than an all-nighter. Aim for 7–9 hours a night, and try to stick to a regular sleep schedule. Your brain will thank you.
Check out these great sleeping tips from the NHS and Mind.
3. Talk About How You’re Feeling
You don’t have to bottle it up. Whether it’s a parent, teacher, friend, or school counsellor, talking can take a huge weight off your shoulders.
When you're stressed or anxious, your thoughts can feel like they're spinning out of control. Saying them out loud can help you make sense of what you're feeling and stop things from building up. Sometimes, just knowing that someone understands what you're going through can make a big difference.
Talking can also help you find solutions you might not have thought of on your own. The person you speak to might be able to offer advice, suggest a different way to look at the problem, or just remind you that you’re not alone. Even if they can’t fix everything, the simple act of sharing can help you feel more supported and less overwhelmed.
Remember: asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Everyone needs support sometimes - even adults!
4. Move Your Body
You don’t need to run a marathon. Even a quick walk or a YouTube workout can lift your mood and reduce stress.
Exercise is a proven way to reduce stress and anxiety. When you move, your body releases endorphins - chemicals that naturally boost your mood and make you feel more relaxed. It’s also a great way to clear your head when you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed with revision.
5. Eat Like You Care About Yourself
Snacks are great, but try to balance them with real meals that give your brain the fuel it needs.
Breakfast is especially important before an exam. Even if you're not usually a morning eater, something simple like toast, porridge, or fruit and yoghurt can give your brain a boost. Skipping meals might seem like no big deal, but it can make you feel tired, irritable, and unable to concentrate.
Don’t forget to drink water, too. Dehydration can sneak up on you and make you feel sluggish or give you a headache. Aim for about 6 to 8 glasses of water a day, and keep a bottle with you while you study or revise.
At the end of the day, all you can do is your best - and that’s enough. GCSEs are important, but they don’t define you.
Be kind to yourself, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
Good luck - you've got this!
