Many Year 12 students will be feeling the weight of the world is on their shoulders ahead of next week's HSC exams, but Winmalee resident Cath Edwards said there are ways to keep stress to manageable levels.
The Stress Less Coach founder has prepared a list stress relief tips for HSC students and for their parents. But she told the Gazette the two really big ones are remembering to breath and maintaining a sense of perspective.
"A lot of people don't realise that breathing exercises, if done the right way, are the easiest way to make you feel calm very quickly - they are like an auto-correct or reset button when under high stress," Ms Edwards said.
"The other important thing HSC students need to remind themselves of is the fact that this challenging examination period is not a permanent situation they are facing.
"They need to stay calm, focused and back themselves but also say to themselves these exams are going to end soon and they have a life ahead of them that will be amazing no matter what happens."
Ms Edwards said another good coping mechanism is to talk about your concerns with someone you trust that is a good listener.
"And don't forget to fit in study breaks, relaxation time, drink plenty of water and eat healthy snacks.
"This might be commonsense, but the funny thing is that's not common when people are under high stress - they can easily lose sight of things."
Tips for HSC students:
- Try to get at least 7-8 hours sleep and turn off electronic devices at least 30 minutes before bed
- Limit caffeine
- Control what you can and let everything else go
- Create a study schedule with 40 minute sessions and take breaks for meals, exercise and relaxation
- Know you are doing your best and that the exams will be over soon
- Talk about how you feel to someone you trust
- Take a deep breath, hold it for three seconds and breathe out for four seconds
- Visualise success during and after the exams.
- If you are doing it tough, seek help. Talk to your parents, your teachers or call a service like the Kid's Helpline on 1800 551 800
Tips for parents:
- Understand that your child is experiencing significant pressure at this time and additional stress at home will not be helpful
- Make yourself available for a chat and offer to be a sounding board for revision
- Reward a balanced study program
- Provide healthy meals
- If you notice a change in your child's behaviour and you are concerned, ask them if they are okay and if you are still concerned seek help. Your local GP is a good starting point.