It's that time of the year when young Australians are heading back to school and university. It's not easy to transition from holiday mode back into school or study, and this can be exacerbated by other issues young people experience.
The 2015 Annual Youth Survey by Mission Australia found that young people are most concerned about coping with stress, school or study problems and body image. These top three issues of concern have remained the same since 2013.
But it's not all dire numbers. With the right know-how, it is possible to handle school stress successfully.
Try to stay organised
Every year teachers will tell you to stay organised and it's for a good reason. When you manage your time in advance by keeping a timetable of classes, assignments and exams, you will have more time to prepare and won't be blindsided by forgetting an important due date. You will also notice a decline in stress as you feel more in control of your time and commitments.
Acknowledge how you are feeling
If or when stress starts to take control of you, it's important to acknowledge how you are feeling. Just because you're in a class with 30 other students and they all appear to be managing, it doesn't mean your feelings are any less valid.
Devise a plan for when stress strikes
A recent study from Resilient Youth Australia of 43,799 Year 3 to Year 12 students, revealed that 37 percent of girls and 32 percent of boys felt constantly under strain, while 36 percent of girls reported feeling unhappy and depressed and 31 percent of boys unable to overcome difficulties through emotional intelligence.
With resilience at dangerous levels, it's vital to devise a plan for when stress strikes or when life knocks you down, so you know how to get back up again.
The plan may include self-care, speaking to guidance counsellors at school, discussing your mental health with a professional, exercise, or even being aware of small activities that nudge you in a positive direction.
Be realistic with your commitments
Extending yourself too far can be a catalyst to stress and anxiety. This is commonly seen in students who undertake part-time work.
Beyondblue states that you can combine school and part-time work with minimal impact on your study if the hours are kept modest. They recommend between 10 and 15 hours per week. But students who work part-time tend to have a greater focus on work than study.
It may be helpful to keep this knowledge in the back of your mind if you find yourself floundering through study and work. Sometimes, taking a step back and reassessing your commitments will enable you to see where you have over extended yourself and what needs to be cut back to reduce stress.
Use your support network
Finally, always use your support network. Some issues are too big to handle on your own and you shouldn't be afraid to speak up. Talk to your school counsellor, a trusted adult, online or phone support services, or open up to a friend.
Connecting with others can make a massive difference when dealing with the stressors of school. If you still feel uneasy about your situation, consider seeing your GP or a mental health professional.
There is help available and you don't need to travel your journey alone.