Samaritans is urging students, parents and teachers to look after their mental health over the coming weeks during the exam season.
More than 120,000 students will start their Leaving Certificate and Junior Certificate exams today.
Samaritans is asking those sitting exams, and those who will be caring for students, to put their wellbeing ahead of their grades.
Teresa Bell, Deputy Regional Director for Samaritans in Ireland, said: “The exam season can be an incredibly stressful time for students, their parents, other family members and even teachers.
“Many students put themselves under enormous pressure to achieve well in their exams. In doing this their mental health may suffer, with young people left suffering from extreme stress or anxiety.
“We hear from students who are struggling to cope during this time, and again when the Leaving Certificate results are out in August.
“By keeping results in perspective, and by balancing study with relaxation, playing sports or socialising with friends, young people are more likely to do themselves justice.
“We appeal to anyone who is feeling overwhelmed because of exam pressure, or who is worried about someone else, to contact Samaritans for free from any phone on 116 123.”
This number will not show up on a phone bill. Alternatively, they can text 087 260 90 90 (standard text rates apply), email [email protected] or go to www.samaritans.org to find details of their local branch of Samaritans where they can talk to a trained volunteer face to face.
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For further information contact Sarah Stack on [email protected] or 085 860 5554
Notes to Editors
- Whatever you’re going through, you can call Samaritans for free any time from any phone on 116 123. This number will not appear on your phone bill. Or you can text 087 260 90 90 (standard text rates apply), email [email protected] or visit samaritans.org to find out details of your nearest branch.
- Samaritans Ireland is a charity and it’s the public kind donations and 2,500 trained volunteers that mean Samaritans services are always there for anyone struggling to cope. Find out how you can support us at samaritans.ie