Students list exams among biggest fears

PRESSURE to achieve high marks in exams is a major stress for students.

Three out of ten young adults aged 18 to 24 are worried about exams and gaining qualifications. This is the third biggest worry in the age group, after relationship and money woes.

Dr Mike Shooter, Samaritans' trustee and youth mental health expert, said: "Exams can bring with them a whirlwind of emotions: panic, anxiety, fear of failure and about the future – getting into university or finding a job following the recession."

Joe Ferns, Samaritans' director of policy, research and development, said: "It's natural to feel anxious around this time and many people struggle to cope with the stress, worries and fears about the future."

"It can be very lonely when you don't feel able to talk about your fears and anxieties with people around you, but Samaritans is there for you, 24/7, whatever you're going through."