Supporting Someone During Exams

If you think someone you care about is struggling with disordered eating, take a look at our ‘Signs and Symptoms of an eating disorder’ page. As a friend or family member, there are things you can do to support them during exam season. It’s important that they feel supported, especially when they might be finding things more stressful and worrying than usual.

Supporting a loved one

Take off the pressure as much as you can. Positivity and reassurance that you’re proud of them no matter what their results are can help counter some of the pressure they might place on themselves around exam time.
Talk with them about any concerns they have about the exam period. They may have their own ideas about how you can support them with revision, meals, and general stress management, or you might be able to work plans out together.
Try to help your loved one identify things they can make a lower priority while they’re studying, whether that’s parts of their work or things like household chores.
Make sure any healthcare professionals providing treatment are aware of the exams. If your loved one is receiving treatment for an eating disorder, let their healthcare team know about upcoming exams. They can help you and your loved one put supportive plans in place during this period. If you become seriously concerned about how the exams are affecting their wellbeing, get in touch with the treatment team as soon as possible.

Supporting a friend

Suggest studying together. You can not only encourage each other, but also make sure you’re taking time out and looking after your mental and physical wellbeing as well. You can also make a study schedule together – it may be easier to figure out where to start if you don’t have to do it alone.
Share your notes. Eating disorders can affect people’s concentration, and illness or appointments may mean there are classes they can’t get to. Helping your friend catch up on what they’ve missed will be very useful.
It’s not all your responsibility. Try to encourage and support your friend, but don’t forget to look after yourself. If you’re also taking exams, you’ll have your own stress and studying to deal with, so set aside plenty of “me” time – you’ll be able to support your friend better if you’re feeling mentally healthy too.
Make plans after exams have finished:. After exams, small, low-pressure activities can really help. Regular check-ins, a walk, or just spending time together can take their mind off things and offer support.