Nearly half of Hong Kong’s DSE candidates stressed over exam results and future, survey shows
- The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups reports over 153 calls for help to hotlines and online counselling since mid-June
- Survey shows nearly half of 822 students polled said their stress level was at least 7 out of 10 – with test results released July 10.
Nearly half of the Hong Kong high school students waiting for university entrance exam results next Wednesday are highly stressed, a youth survey found.
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups said on Thursday that 153 students had sought help through telephone hotlines and online counselling since the middle of June.
More than 70 per cent said their main source of stress was the possibility of not getting their desired results in the DSE exam.
Hsu Siu-man, the youth federation’s coordinator, said that it was inevitable that candidates would be worried about their results and future plans.
“Parents should avoid using phrases that are critical, which only increase communication barriers between parents and children,” Hsu said.
The survey asked students what kind of statements cause stress. Among the replies was “How were your examination results?” and “I told you to study harder, but you do not listen: you will fail on results day”.
The federation said students hoped to hear more encouraging comments such as “No matter what your results are, we will always support you” and “As long as you tried your best, it is OK”.
Some cases handled by the youth federation included a female immigrant candidate who had excellent grades, but was weak in English. She became increasingly distressed after her teacher warned her that if her English scores were not up to level 2, she would not be able to attend any universities or tertiary institutions.
DSE scores show fewer Hong Kong students make grade for local universities
Another case focused on a male candidate who wanted to film production. His parents strongly discouraged his plans, worrying he would not have gain a stable job. The disputes with his family made him feel troubled about his future.
Hsu said parents should carefully observe their children's emotional changes, such as children with depression, anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, loss of appetite and loss of motivation. Leisure activities, like watching movies and exercising, could also help ease their stress, according to Hsu.
She encouraged students to adjust their expectations and allocate more time to fun activities. If they still feel stressed, she said, they should talk to family or friends so they do not feel alone.
For youths with more serious cases of insomnia, depression or anxiety, she said it is best to seek professional help as soon as possible.
