Greek parents urged to help children cope with exam stress

Greece’s high‑school exam season begins with promotion tests on May 18 and the Panhellenic exams on May 29, followed by junior‑high exams on June 2. The pressure of these assessments often triggers performance anxiety among students, a condition that psychologists say can start as early as the primary‑school years.

Psychologist Eleni Koutsopoulou of the 11525 helpline explained that anxiety is a natural response to perceived threats, noting, “For a child, exams can feel like a danger even though they are not.” She highlighted several contributing factors: early comparison with peers, parental expectations, and increased screen time, which research links to higher levels of anxiety and low self‑esteem.

Koutsopoulou advised parents to limit their children’s screen use, encourage regular sleep, physical activity, and social interaction, and to reassure youngsters that their personal value is not solely tied to academic results. By framing exams as a challenge rather than a threat, families can help reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing during the examination period.