It's that time of year.  The results have arrived in the hands of the thousands of nervous eager hands all over the country, win or lose, they've had their big night out and the ensuing hangovers. Now it's time to take stock and figure out what to do next. For the lucky ones, it's just a matter of which course they'll pick, for others, it hasn't gone to plan and it probably feels like the end of the world. We know it isn't but if you've been there, it can feel like it.

It's hard to find a direction in a time like this, many take the harder road and choose to repeat their exams, while others decide to get out there and try find PLC placements or a job. With maths results all over the country showing an unprecedented improvement, it is an encouraging sign that the overhaul and  improvements to the teaching methods have worked. Perhaps next year, those that do decide to repeat can take full advantage of the new methods and achieve better results next time. But for those who aren't going back and repeating, the sense of limbo can be overwhelming. Suicide rates among the leaving cert age bracket can spike around this time of year with students feeling they've failed and it's game over. If you know  anyone going through this,  It's good to let them know there are many other options available out there and not to lose heart. Support and encouragement are great and just letting them know you're there if they need any advice, or anything at all. Something we should all be doing if we have a younger brother or sister in this situation.