With university exams around the corner, many students across the country may be currently experiencing unhealthy levels of exam and study stress. Experts from youth mental health service, ReachOut, are available for interview about:
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the mental health impacts of exam and study stress
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tips for students
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tips for parents supporting young people
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support information
Linda Williams, Clinical Lead at ReachOut, is available for interview. Linda is a Senior Psychologist with more than 10 years experience working across telephone and digital mental health services. Linda’s areas of expertise include youth mental health and she is knowledgeable across a wide range of concerns.
Quote that can be attributed to Linda Williams: “ReachOut’s data on study stress shows that almost half of young people in Australia are not only stressed about exams and study, but that the stress is also having a significant impact on their mental health, wellbeing, their physical health and their lives more generally. We know that some stress can help us get through difficult tasks such as exams, but when that stress starts impacting our mood and other areas of our lives it can impact students’ mental health in both the short and long term.”
Jackie Hallan, Director of Service at ReachOut, is also available for comment. Jackie has 15 years’ experience in program management and health promotion focused on youth health and wellbeing.
Quote that can be attributed to Jackie Hallan: “With university exams around the corner, now is an important time to remind students to be proactive about their mental health. Small actions like waking up at the same time each day, taking breaks during study sessions and staying connected to the people who are important in your life can make a big difference. I also strongly encourage all students to seek help if study stress is becoming unmanageable for them.”
ReachOut has a range of support for students to help them manage exam stress including information, tips, online communities and one-to-one peer support via ReachOut PeerChat.
Parents and carers can play an important role in helping young people manage exam and study stress. For tips, information and support parents and carers can visit ReachOut Parents.
ENDS
Key Facts:
Results from a national survey of over 600 young people aged 16 - 25 years, conducted by ReachOut in August and September 2022.
Almost half (48%) of young people surveyed said that study stress was one of the most concerning issues for them. Of these young people:
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75% said they lacked motivation and were not doing things they enjoyed
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73% said they had trouble sleeping
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72% had trouble focusing
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71% experienced changes to their mood
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42% took time off work or study due to study and exam stress
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39% experienced challenges within their relationships with their friends, families or partner due to study stress
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37% experienced poor physical health or illness
Of all young people surveyed who were currently studying, when asked what concerned them about studying they said:
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Worry about not being able to live the life they have planned for themselves (58%)
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Worry about how they will compare with other students (55%)
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Worried they would let their family down (49%)
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Worry about getting a job (47%)
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Concern about getting into the course they want to (41%)
About us:
ReachOut is the leading online mental health service in Australia supporting young people during tough times.
ReachOut helps young people feel better about today and the future, no matter what challenge they’re facing. They provide a safe place where young people can openly express themselves, explore what’s happening in their lives, connect with people who understand their situation, and find the resources to help them manage their challenges now and in the future.
Anonymous, free and 100% online, ReachOut has been designed specifically for – and with – young people. From one-to-one support from experienced peer workers, to online forums, 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, and has been doing so for more than 20 years.
And, ReachOut Parents and ReachOut Schools provide valuable information, resources and advice to help parents, carers and educators to better understand the young people in their lives and to play an active role in their wellbeing.
Contact details:
Linda and Jackie can be contacted via Tessa Anderssen, Senior Media Manager at ReachOut. [email protected] / 0411 708 587