I'm really worried about 17yr DS and the GCSE resit cycle of misery. He has taken Maths 3 times and English twice and each time he gets a 3 and feels like a failure, He is regularly spiralling into negative self talk, episodes of depression and anxiety. The episodes are all triggered by any mention of resits and tutoring etc. He is currently not at college (due to return in September 25) to complete the second year of a media course, but the thought of returning to Maths and English lessons triggers his mental state. I had hoped by having time out of college this year that he would consider focusing on at least one of the exams but whenever we mention it he spirals. I'm at a loss as to what to do. I've accepted that he can navigate life without English & Maths; if he really needs it he could go back to it later in life. He was 5 marks off a 4 in Maths last time, so he was close but he couldn't bear more tutoring or exams. Not sure why I'm posting; I feel heartbroken to see DS this way, he is a creative, sociable boy, we're exploring ADHD assessment this year and will also try to get him to a counsellor for help; I'm angry that we are subjecting our young people through this horrendous cycle when we should be lifting up our youngsters to learn skills for their futures not crushing their mental health. I'm worried that he won't return to complete his course.given that maths and english will still be compulsory for him.