Coping with Leaving Cert Stress - Tips for Parents and Students

The Leaving Cert is a challenging time for both students and their parents, with academic pressure often leading to stress and anxiety. By working together and adopting practical strategies, families can navigate this period more calmly and effectively. Below are key tips to help students manage stress and parents provide meaningful support, based on the provided outline.

1. Set Realistic Expectations

Unrealistic goals, like studying 10 hours a day without breaks, can lead to burnout and frustration. Focus on achievable goals, and stay consistent with your study. 1 hour of study for 10 days is better than 10 hours of study once.

Tip: Getting help from a grinds tutor is one of the best ways to study and stay consistent. Students who do 1-on-1 grinds can increase their grades by 35%. Contact us to match you with a tutor that fits your needs, or browse the list of tutors on our site.

2. Move Your Body During Breaks

Physical activity is a proven stress-reliever and boosts mental clarity. Doesn't need to be a big run, or intense workout. Sometimes a bit of walking in the park without your phone is enough to clear your mind.

Tip: Try a 10-minute yoga video off YouTube, or a short stroll in a local park.

3. Have a plan

Sometimes stress can get us because we try to do too much. Having a clear study plan that is realisitic can help you feel more accomplished when you finish everything for the day, and also allows you to have more time to unwind.

Use the Weekly Study Planner from our Free Learning Resources to create a solid plan that will help you achieve your goals this year!

4. Comparison Is the Thief of Joy

Comparing progress to others can destroy your confidence and increase stress. Focus on your own learning, and always try to be better than you were yesterday.

Tip: Keep a journal to note daily achievements. Anything you acomplished that day, write it down. This way you can look back and see the improvement you've made!

Final Thoughts

The Leaving Cert is a tough period for students, but it is just a temporary challenge. Stay calm by focusing on consistent effort, self-care, and your own progress. With realistic goals, active breaks, and a solid plan, you can tackle this period with confidence. Take it one day at a time. You’ve got this 😁!