Do something you enjoy
If you’re feeling down about your results, remember that exams are not the only measure of success, there are lots of things that make you, you. Spend some time chilling out, listen to your favourite songs on repeat, watch your favourite movie or go out for a bit of exercise.
Avoid social media for the day
No doubt your Instagram and TikTok feeds will be full of exam result related posts, which isn’t going to make you feel better. Staying off social media for the day helps you not compare yourself to others and means you can focus on yourself and your next steps. Find out what your options are after getting your exam results.
Focus on the positive
Failing your exams isn’t the end of the world and often failure is the first step towards success. If you’ve not done as well as you’d hoped, there are still plenty of options available to you. Think about what positive action you can take to move forward.
Find out more about the 2024 appeals process here.
Be supportive of your friends
If one of your friends has done well in their exams, make sure to show them your support. Yes, it can be difficult when you’re feeling disappointed about your own results, but an important part of being a good friend is celebrating their achievements with them. Plus, chances are, if they’re a good friend, they’ll be able to help cheer you up and chat over your concerns if you’re feeling down about your results.
Where to find support
- If you can’t seem to get out of feeling down or want to talk to someone at any time then check out ChildLine. They have a free, confidential listening service which you can call on 0800 1111.
- Breathing Space is also there to talk to you if you are feeling low or depressed. Their number is free to call on 0800 83 85 87 – Weekdays 6pm – 2am, 24 hours on weekends (6pm Friday – 6am Monday).
- Take a look at our AyeFeel page for a range of resources and information about different people to contact about how you’re feeling.
- If you want to chat through your options after receiving your SQA results, call the Skills Development Scotland (SDS) Results Helpline on 0808 100 8000. It is open 6 and 7 August, 8am to 8pm, 8 and 9 August, 9am to 5pm.
- If you’d like to speak to an SDS adviser out with these times, you can call their national helpline on 0800 917 8000 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm), visit you nearest SDS centre or community venue, or if you’re still at school, you can get in touch with your SDS school careers adviser there.