Practical ways to support confidence, celebrate effort, and respond to all emotions
Results day can be a huge rollercoaster of emotions for many young people and their families. This can be a particularly difficult time for young people who have experienced developmental trauma given their tricky early start which can often lead to low confidence and low self-esteem. Here are some of our top tips for parents/carers who are supporting young people in managing the day and the period which follows.
Be present and calm
Results day can be an anxious time for your young person; ensure you are present and calm as they may look to you for reassurance throughout the day. Fake it til you make it! Show this calm presence even though you might be struggling inside.
Listen and empathise
Your young person may experience a mixture of emotions from happiness to disappointment during and after the day. Let them share these emotions with you and validate these feelings with understanding and empathy.
Avoid comparisons
Every person has a different journey, remind your young person of this and reassure them that there are many different pathways to reaching their goals.
Celebrate effort
Highlight the huge efforts that your young person has put in to complete their assessments and celebrate their hard work over the result themselves.
Encourage self-compassion for them and you!
Your young person’s threat system may be heightened due to their drive to succeed, therefore encourage them to reflect on their successes to help soothe and regulate. It will also have been an emotional day for you so remember to look after yourself and have someone to off-load to if needed.
To all our clients receiving their results…
✨ You did it! Results Day can bring a mix of emotions – excitement, pride, relief, disappointment, or even uncertainty – and all of those feelings are valid. Whatever your results look like, they don’t define your worth or your potential. Life offers many different routes forward, and today is just one step along the way. Be kind to yourself as you think about what comes next.
🌱 For parents and carers: Results Day can stir up strong emotions for you as well. Try to meet your young person with calm and empathy, and remember to look after yourself too. Having your own support to share feelings with can make a big difference.