Our youth: A spotlight on mental health
Half of all the mental health conditions we may experience during a lifetime starts by the age of 14, with over 75% of mental health problems taking place before we hit 25. With RUOK? Day a key date in September, mental health is certainly top of mind for many in our community.
Whether it’s school performance pressures, a troubling peer environment or difficulties at home, young Australians have a lot to deal with. Yeah 12 can be one of the most stressful periods, with anxiety and stress key issues.
With HSC Exams on the horizon and many of our youth across the northern beaches no doubt feeling the pressure, here are some handy tips to help navigate this challenging time:
Balance is key
Maintaining a balance of activities in your life during this period will help mitigate the risk of burnout. This will be critical, particularly during your HSC. Whether it’s getting outdoors for a walk or run, playing sport, catching up with friends or even doing some part time work, ensuring you give yourself (and your mind) a chance to switch off is key. Don’t put pressure and expectation on yourself to study all day, every day.
Make your time count
It is perhaps one of the easiest pitfalls of study – procrastination. While it may appear harmless, procrastination during time-critical periods such as your HSC will mean that you don’t achieve the study goals you set out, and you’ll also spend more time at your desk trying to achieve them because you procrastinated. Make sure time spent at your desk is maximised. You also shouldn’t expect to be able to sit at your desk for 8 hours straight with no break. Giving yourself small breaks throughout the day will ensure you’re focussed when it is time to concentrate.
Set your space
You may have heard it before, but a designated study space will go a long way in setting you up for success. It’s also a good idea to ensure this space is completely separate from other areas in your house, stimulating wellbeing, focus and attention. Try to keep your study space out of your bedroom – this area should be for rest and relaxation.
Nutrition and sleep
While you may think you can function on minimal sleep, you are actually doing your study efforts a significant disservice. Young adults require 9-10 hours of sleep every night. During this period of shut eye, your brain will consolidate information, with sleep promoting overall health and wellbeing during the day. As well as adequate sleep, your mind and body need nutrition to function effectively – what feeds your body, also feeds your mind. Try to avoid too much caffeine or sugar, as both can leave you feeling drained and affect your mood.
For parents
Ways to support your child
While it may be tough, try not to micromanage your child and the amount of study they’re doing. Be there for your child in whatever way they need you. In some instances, it can be better to completely remove yourself from their study regime so that you both have distance and you can be a support from a fresh perspective.
Seek help if you need it
If you feel like you need support to support your child – go for it! There is plenty of support available to parents to help manage this challenging situation. Beyond Blue’s Surviving Year 12 Factsheet for parents is a great resource.
If your child needs more support than you can provide, consider speaking to an expert. If your child’s anxiety or stress is impacting their ability to function – whether that’s at school or just in life – it might be time to seek further support.
The team at Beach Street Family Practice can assist you and your child in finding the support they need. Give us a call today to book an appointment.
Woolgoolga will play host to a number of RUOK? Day style activities throughout September, check out the ‘What’s happening Woolgoolga’ facebook page for more details.