Are You Worried Your Teen Is Struggling With Exam Pressure?

Is your child or teen preparing for their 11+, SATs, GCSEs, or A-Levels Soon?

Have you noticed changes in their behaviour, emotions, or habits that leave you feeling worried?

As parents, we want the best for our children. But when it comes to exams, it’s not always easy to know how to help.

Maybe they seem distant, overwhelmed, or ready to give up.

Or they might appear to be avoiding revision altogether – or the opposite, overstretching themselves to the point of exhaustion.

The pressure of exams can weigh heavily on teenagers. And as parents, it’s tough to see our children struggle.

But how can you tell if it’s just nerves… or something more serious?

5 Warning Signs Your Teen May Be Struggling

  • Withdrawal: Is your teen pulling away from family or friends, spending more time alone?

  • Emotional outbursts: Have you noticed sudden anger, tears, or self-critical comments like ‘I’m useless’ or ‘I’ll never pass’?

  • Changes in sleep or eating habits: Struggling to sleep, oversleeping, or unusual changes in appetite.

  • Avoidance or overworking: Either procrastinating on schoolwork or obsessing over it without feeling ‘good enough’

  • Loss of interest: Hobbies and activities they once enjoyed now seem meaningless.

When Should You Step In?


It’s normal for teens to feel some anxiety before exams.

But if these signs persist – or escalate – it may be time to step in and provide the support they need.

Severe cases, like panic attacks, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts, require professional medical attention.

Don’t hesitate to consult a GP or therapist if needed. Early intervention can make all the difference.

But for many teens, they simply need someone to understand their struggles, help them organise their thoughts, and guide them towards building resilience.

Who Am I, and How Can I Help?

I’m Magali Béchade, a Teen Life Coach and NLP Practitioner.

I specialise in helping teens manage the pressure of exams and build the mindset they need to thrive. I’ve worked as a secondary school teacher, career counsellor, and I am a parent.

With years of experience supporting young people, I’ve seen first hand how much difference the right guidance can make. Through coaching, I offer a safe, judgment-free space where your teen can:

- Identify and apply effective study strategies tailored to their learning style.

- Manage stress and build confidence.

- Regain their spark and motivation.

Together, we’ll find practical solutions to help them stay on track – academically and emotionally.

Take the First Step



Download my free guide: ‘Exam Success Toolkit: Helping Your Teen Thrive Under Pressure’


Inside, you’ll discover:

  • Tips to support your teen’s study habits without taking over.

  • Simple strategies to help them manage stress and stay motivated.

  • Practical advice on balancing screen time, sleep, and self-care.

Why Wait?

Parenting a teenager isn’t easy, especially during exam season.

But you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Give your teen the tools and support they need to tackle exams with confidence – and help them thrive, not just survive.