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Health and wellbeing: Tips for students

Key takeaways

  • Create a study schedule, take breaks, and practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing
  • Get support from Headspace, Lifeline, ReachOut Australia, Beyond Blue, and Head to Health if you need.
  • Stay active, eat well, get enough sleep, and stay connected with friends and family. Seek help if you’re struggling.
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Looking after your health and wellbeing can help you get the most out of your studies. Whether you're preparing for exams, working on assignments or balancing other commitments, taking care of yourself can help you feel more focused, confident and prepared.

Managing exam stress

Headspace

Headspace is a fantastic resource for young people looking to improve their mental health and wellbeing. They offer a range of services, including:

  • Counselling and support: Access to professional counsellors who can provide support and guidance.
  • Workshops and programs: Various programs designed to help you build resilience and cope with stress.
  • Online resources: Articles, videos, and tools to help you manage your mental health.
 

Tips

Exams can be a significant source of stress, but there are ways to manage it effectively. Headspace offers excellent resources for managing exam stress. They provide practical tips such as:

  • Creating a study schedule: Break down your study material into manageable chunks and plan your study time.
  • Taking regular breaks: Short breaks during study sessions can help maintain focus and reduce stress.
  • Practicing relaxation techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and mindfulness can help calm your mind.
 

Beyond Blue

Beyond Blue is a valuable resource for anyone dealing with mental health issues. They offer:

  • 24/7 support: Free and confidential help through phone or online chat anytime, providing guidance on managing stress and anxiety related to future plans.
  • Career and study resources: Information and tools to help students make informed decisions about their next steps, whether it’s further education or entering the workforce.
  • Mental health coaching: Personalised support to help manage the pressures of transitioning from school to post-school life, including setting goals and building resilience.
 

Lifeline

On top of offering crisis support, Lifeline provides mental health and wellbeing support for anyone, anytime, anywhere in Australia through their fact sheets and online Support Toolkit.

You can find information on a range of topics, including:

  • Coping with stress – Everyday strategies to manage pressure and overwhelm
  • Understanding anxiety and depression – How to recognise the signs and find support
  • Building resilience – Encouragement and tips to navigate life’s challenges
  • Trusted tools, apps, and support services – Practical resources to support your wellbeing 
 Lifeline’s content is designed to help you make sense of what you’re feeling and explore support options in your own time, in your own way.
 

ReachOut Australia

ReachOut Australia is another excellent mental health and wellbeing resource for young people. Anonymous, free, and 100% online, ReachOut lets young people connect on their terms at any time from anywhere. From one-to-one support from experienced peer workers, to online communities, as well as tips, stories and resources, ReachOut offers a wide range of support options that allow young people to engage in the ways they want to, when they want to.

  • Mental health information: Articles and videos on topics like anxiety, work & money, loneliness, and self-care.
  • PeerChat: Through online text chat, a young person can talk with a trained peer worker who actively listens and lets them guide the conversation. Each chat session is up to 45 minutes long and to find out more go to ReachOut.com/PeerChat.
  • Online community forums: A safe space to connect with others who might be experiencing similar challenges.
     

Head to Health

Head to Health is designed to help you find the right mental health resources. They offer:

  • Online quiz: A tool to help students identify the best mental health support tailored to their needs as they plan their future.
  • Phone support: Call 1800 595 212 for advice and guidance on mental health services and how to cope with the stress of making post-school decisions.
  • In-person support: Visit Head to Health centres for a safe space to talk about future plans and get help navigating the transition from school to adulthood.

Additional tips for maintaining health and wellbeing

Tips

  • Stay active: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your mood.
  • Eat well: A balanced diet can have a positive impact on your mental health.
  • Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to help your body and mind recover.
  • Stay connected: Keep in touch with friends and family for support and companionship.
  • Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to reach out to a trusted adult, counsellor, or mental health professional if you're struggling.
 

Taking care of your health and wellbeing is essential for your overall success and happiness.

Use these resources and tips to help you navigate stressful times and maintain a positive outlook. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and take time for yourself.

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