HSC Stress Tips

The HSC is slowly nearing and Year 12 students are preparing for their trials and other assessments. Students face pressure from their schools, parents and the community which can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety and the exacerbation of other pre-existing problems. In private practice GP’s are having to fill out misadventure forms, Mental Health Care Plans as well as make appropriate referrals and hope that their referrals will land in a service that will quickly support the HSC student in time for their examinations.

Research has shown that a moderate level of stress can be beneficial to students because it helps with motivation to reach one’s goals. Too much stress however can impede ones’ performance leading to even more stress and thus perpetuating the cycle.

The following tips can be useful when speaking with HSC students:

·      Take Time Out. Students often feel so under pressure than any time away from studies feels like they are wasting time, but when they are studying they are so stressed they feel like they aren’t getting anywhere.  Taking time out helps to give the brain a break, re-set and re-focus making study time more productive.
·      Exercise Regularly. Exercise is a natural anti-depressant and anxiolytic. It lifts the mood and reduces cortisol (stress hormone) which keeps us feeling uptight.
·      Set Goals. Whether this is a study plan or blocking out chunks of study time, have a plan and stick to it. Use your phone alarm to keep you focused and remind you to take breaks.
·      Reward Yourself. After a certain pre-determined period, reward yourself with whatever makes you happy e.g. a walk with a friend, Play Station time, time to play with the dog or a night off study. Reward your hard work and give yourself something to look forward to.
·      Challenge Your Thinking. when we are thing “what if I fail?”, “what if I forget everything?” challenge you thoughts with more realistic thoughts such as “I might not know everything but I know most things given all the study I’ve done. All I can do is do my best when I get there”
·      Reach Out. Book in with a psychologist early so they can help you with strategies to get you through.