A GROWING number of children are seeking counselling to help them cope with exam stress, it has been revealed.

And, with thousands of youngsters across Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire facing testing times as exam season gets into full swing, charity bosses are urging them to make sure they don’t suffer in silence.

Experts at Childline say it is vital that pupils know help is at hand if they are struggling to cope with the pressure of chasing pass marks.

Joanna Barrett, acting national head of NSPCC Scotland, which runs the Childline service, said: “Every year we hear from children who are struggling to cope with the pressure to succeed in their exams.

“For some, this can feel so insurmountable that it causes crippling anxiety and stress and, in some cases, contributes to mental health issues or even suicidal thoughts and feelings.

“Exams are important but worrying and panicking about them can be counterproductive, leaving young people unable to revise and prepare.

“It is vital that young people are supported by family, friends and teachers during the exam period to help them do the best they can.

“Childline is also here 24/7 for any young person needing confidential support and advice.”

According to Childline staff in Scotland, the number of youngsters contacting them for help with exam stress has more than doubled in the space of a year.

Worryingly young people are consistently telling counsellors that exam stress can contribute to depression, anxiety, panic attacks, excessive crying, low self-esteem, self-harming and suicidal thoughts, or even make pre-existing mental health conditions worse.

The NSPCC has issued a number of tips to young people to help them cope with the pressure of taking exams.

These include making sure they take regular breaks from revising and do some exercise.

A spokesperson added: “Go to bed at a reasonable time and try to get some sleep. Also, try to think positively – even if you don’t feel like it, a positive attitude will help you during your revision.

“Remember that everyone’s different - try not to compare yourself to your friends.”

Advice is also available for parents and carers to help ease exam stress.

This includes being careful not to place unnecessary pressure on children to gain certain grades.

The spokesperson said: “Help them to revise by leaving them the space and time to do so. Be supportive and help alleviate their worries by talking to them.”

Children and young people can contact Childline for free, confidential support and advice 24 hours a day by calling 0800 1111.

Support is also available online at www.childline.org.uk.