Twelve years of schooling - the last year of which was thrown into chaos because of the coronavirus pandemic - will climax today when HSC written exams get under way at schools in St George and Sutherland Shire.
Today marks day one of the HSC written exams - already delayed a week due to the pandemic - with English (Studies, Standard, Advanced and English as an Additional Language) beginning at 9.50am.
Primary Industries and a number of language exams will take place in the afternoon.
Tomorrow will see some students embark on their second English exam, while Music exams will be held in the afternoon.
Thursday will see Ancient History, Business Studies, Construction, Tourism, Travel and Events, and more languages, while Friday will be a testing time for students of Economics, Investigating Science, Community and Family Studies, French and Electrotechnology.
HSC exams will continue until Wednesday, November 11, when the final two exams are held - Design and Technology, and Drama.
While HSC exams are always considered stressful, disruptions caused by the global pandemic and two months spent largely away from classrooms has resulted in added pressure on year 12 students this year.
Mental health counsellor, Associate Professor Ebi Cocodia, has put together five tips to help parents support their teens during their exams.
Prioritise a study/life balance
For many, the HSC feels all-encompassing and students are often tempted to spend all their waking hours studying for upcoming exams. It's important to maintain a good balance between study and life.
"Even though we have the HSC going on right now it's important to maintain a level of normality," Associate Professor Cocodia said.
"To help make sure the HSC does not become a lifestyle, try to ensure you prioritise a healthy balance between studying and what would be your normal, everyday routines and activities.
"Ensuring students have that stability and variation in their day will prove invaluable to using their time productively."
Structure your days
When stress levels are peaking, implementing some structure into your day is important. This can mean the difference between having a healthy and positive study experience or burning out early.
"A simple trick is to make sure you wake up and go to bed at the same time every day and maintain a regular meal pattern and balanced diet that works for you," Associate Professor Cocodia said.
"Taking the time to work things you enjoy into your day is also an important part of a study routine.
"If you find that you're stressed or anxious, try doing an activity that brings you joy as a study break. This will help you to feel less anxious, give your mind a well-earned rest, and make you more confident in your ability to cope with the pressure of exams."
Have a plan A and plan B
While it is great to have a strong idea of what you'd like to do once the exams are over, students and parents should have a backup plan when it comes to a chosen career path or higher education provider. That way, even if it takes a few extra years or 'plan A' doesn't work out, it won't feel like such an impossible task to achieve your end career or education goal.
"Failure is simply a stepping-stone to improvement. What's your backup plan?" Associate Professor Cocodia said.
"Ensuring you have a plan B around what's happening after the HSC helps to take the pressure off students worried about numbers and results and can help give you much needed peace of mind.
"That way you are not focused on one specific outcome, and it isn't the end of the world if it doesn't go the way you first envisioned."
Focus on time management and trust your tools
Most HSC students are probably feeling that there are not enough hours in the day. But completing study on time - and well - doesn't have to be a constant race against the clock.
"Following the strategies that you have already been given over your schooling career by your mentors or teachers is the best approach to ensuring you make the most of your time," Associate Professor Cocodia said.
"It is very tricky to change routines now, so maintaining strategies that have worked for you before is important.
"If you are struggling, always go back to the person who has been your mentor or guide for help. This could be a family member, teacher or career advisor, and they have already given you the tools to get through this, so trust them.
"Changing things up at the last minute is not advisable."
Exercise and eat well
It's been said before, but for good reason. Studying and sitting for final exams can be a stressful time, so it's important to have the right fuel for your brain and body to help you perform at your optimum. Exercise helps elevate your mood and learning.
"We have all sorts of noises in our head when we are worrying. To control these thoughts, I encourage students to go for nice long walks daily," Associate Professor Cocodia said.
"Regular exercise and access to bright natural light will also help to improve cognitive function.
"Also, be mindful of what you are eating. It's good to always eat a healthy balanced diet and this will help keep you focused for long periods of time when studying or sitting exams."
Details: If you find you need help you can visit one of the following:
Headspace; click here
Kids Help Line; click here
Reach Out; click here
