Health bosses in Leeds urge young people to seek mental health help in light of A Level and GSCE results downgrade fiasco

The city's NHS teams are encouraging young people in Leeds who feel overwhelmed by exam stress to reach out for support with their emotional wellbeing if they need it.

It comes as what is already a stressful time of year for young people has been compounded by the uncertainty over results, grades, government u-turns and what next steps they want to take.

One resource that the NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is urging people to look at is MindMate, a dedicated mental health and emotional wellbeing website (www.mindmate.org.uk) in Leeds for young people who are aged anywhere between 12 and 25, as well as parents and professionals who work with young people.

It offers advice and a range of resources for those who are struggling, as well as signposting to services that can help.

“There are services in Leeds who offer one-to-one support via phone or online chat, as well as group work. Information about these services can be found on the MindMate website, as well as lots of useful advice and resources. MindMate also offers advice for parents and carers on supporting their child’s emotional wellbeing, as we know that exam stress can be challenging for the whole family.

“I would also urge young people to speak to someone they trust about how they’re feeling – whether that’s a friend, family member, or teacher. There are lots of options available if you don’t get the outcome you’re hoping for on this results day. It’s important to be kind yourself, to share your feelings and to know that support is available in Leeds if you need it.”

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Laura Collins