The time has come again for young people across the community to
return to, or begin, high school. For some students the transition back to school is relatively easy, however headspace Queanbeyan recognises that for others it can be a period of increased stress and anxiety.

It’s important for family and friends to remain empathetic to young people as high school can be a difficult time of “firsts”. Young people are still learning how to cope with and manage stress. High school presents challenges and pressures they may not have had before, like navigating new social  situations, the stress to get good grades and keeping up with extra-curricular activities. The added stress of COVID has further complicated study and the pressures young people face.

Students are expected to do some study and assignments outside of school hours, these expectations increase as young people get older. headspace suggests the following tips to help young people get the most out of their study time:

Take the time to plan
• Create a study space that is comfortable, quiet, well lit, organised, and has no distractions nearby, such as a TV, phone, people talking, etc.
• Prepare a study plan and goals for each day / week. Make sure it's  balanced with other important things in your life - that way it will be easier to stick to.
• Talk to your employers early to let them know you need to limit your shifts / hours while studying. 

Practical study tips
• Research shows it’s more effective to hand write notes, rather than to type them.
• Set study periods at 30–50 minutes followed by a 15-minute break.
• Prepare a study timetable and stick your study plan up on the wall or on your desktop.

Look after yourself
• Self care is especially important when you have a big demand in your life - that way you have the
energy to commit to what you need to accomplish.
• Build activities you enjoy and that bring your stress levels down into your study plan, such as sport, spending time with friends, internet, etc.
• Don't get hungry before or while studying. Grab nutritional snacks that keep you going, such as fruit/nuts/dairy.
• Remember to get some exercise every day as this helps you to keep focused and energetic. Rest when you need to
• Work out what times of day you have the most energy and plan to study then.
• When you have a break do something physical or fun, such as go for a short run or play with a pet. A glass of water helps too!
• Relaxation is important, especially before bed, to slow the brain activity down. Try some slow, deep breathing, a shower or a bath, herbal tea etc.