A Levels 2025 results are just around the corner! For students who poured their hearts and minds into their exams in May and June, Thursday, August 14th marks a significant milestone – Results Day. Thousands of learners across Singapore will be heading to schools and colleges, a mix of excitement and nerves swirling as they await those crucial envelopes.

But the pressure surrounding A Levels can be immense, and the anticipation leading up to Results Day can trigger anxiety for both students and their parents. We spoke to a leading mental health expert in Singapore to provide practical and actionable advice for navigating this potentially stressful period. Whether you're a student feeling overwhelmed, or a parent wanting to offer the best support, this guide is for you.

Understanding Results Day Anxiety

“It’s perfectly normal to feel anxious,” explains Dr. Emily Tan, a clinical psychologist specializing in adolescent mental health. “A Levels represent years of hard work, and the results can feel like a defining moment. For parents, the worry stems from wanting the best for their children and seeing them potentially disappointed.”

Dr. Tan highlights that anxiety can manifest in various ways, including:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Increased irritability
• Loss of appetite
• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach aches
• Excessive worrying and negative thoughts

Tips for Students to Manage Anxiety

Here’s Dr. Tan’s advice for students:

• Prepare for all outcomes: Realize that your worth isn’t defined by your grades. Have a backup plan in mind, whether it’s retaking the exams, exploring alternative pathways like polytechnic or junior colleges, or considering vocational training.
• Focus on what you *can* control: You can’t change the results, but you *can* control your reaction to them. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
• Limit social media: Avoid comparing yourself to others online. Social media often presents an unrealistic picture of success.
• Talk to someone: Share your feelings with friends, family, teachers, or a school counsellor. Don't bottle things up.
• Prioritize self-care: Get enough sleep, eat healthy, and engage in activities you enjoy.

Supporting Your Child (or Yourself) Through Results Day

Parents play a crucial role in providing emotional support. Dr. Tan suggests:

• Be present and listen: Let your child express their feelings without judgment.
• Validate their emotions: Acknowledge that their disappointment is real and understandable. Avoid minimizing their feelings.
• Focus on effort, not just results: Praise their hard work and dedication, regardless of the outcome.
• Offer practical support: Help them explore their options and make informed decisions.
• Model healthy coping mechanisms: Show them how you handle stress and setbacks.

Remember: You're Not Alone

Results Day can be emotionally challenging, but remember that you're not alone. Schools and colleges offer counselling services, and there are numerous mental health resources available in Singapore. Take care of yourself and each other, and approach Results Day with a sense of perspective and hope. The future is full of possibilities, and these results are just one chapter in your story.

Resources:

• Singapore Student Care Service: https://www.ssc.sg/
• National Care Hotline: 1800-200-0000