WE are now in exam season with GCSEs and A-levels looming.

Stress levels in many families and schools are starting to rise.

It is unfortunately easy for an unhealthy cycle of anxiety to emerge.

All those concerned - adolescents, teachers, parents and other family members can get locked into a stress-loop bringing their own set of worries, reacting and contributing to the stresses of the others in the mix.

Clearly adolescents are under pressure to perform, worried about their future - both in education and the workplace.

Teachers have targets to hit, Ofsted to consider with their own performance often under scrutiny.

Parents want the best for their child and can worry about an uncertain future and an increasingly crowded job market.

What to do?

There are numerous strategies available for families, (many of which are pure common sense), such as for students, take regular breaks, get exercise and don’t compare yourself to others.

Tips for parents include staying calm, removing expectations and providing treats for the children in the thick of exam stress and extra attention for those that are not.

I came across a new social media app called MeeTwo allowing teenagers to post anonymously and receive support and advice from other teens.

There is also impressive research (by the University of Cambridge) on the benefits of mindfulness and mediation in reducing anxiety, improving brain function and promoting wellbeing for teenagers.

I would also obviously advocate counselling.

I spoke to one of our counsellors who is currently working with families in the midst of exam pressure.

She told me that what is often ignored is the simple acknowledgement of what everyone is feeling and the efficacy for all of being able to express their concerns and be heard without having to deploy a strategy or ‘do’ something.

This can be particularly therapeutic if the whole family is on board as everyone has their own particular set of issues and often individuals can get locked into their own concerns without appreciating what others in the family are feeling – or indeed realising the impact each is having on the other.

Contact GCS if your family are suffering under exam pressure on 01453 766310 or see gloscounselling.org.uk

GCS is also holding free open day for anyone interested in child, adolescent and family therapeutic training from 10amto 1pm on Saturday, April 28 the Sub Rooms, Stroud.

lNicky Ferry is a training development manager at the GCS in Stroud.