Supporting VCE Students and Parents Through Final Exams

Strategic Insights -

With thousands of Victorian teenagers facing final exams, the stress level is high, not just among students but also among parents. Experts and students share insights on how to cope with the pressure, manage stress, and support children during this critical time.

Key Takeaways:

  • Child psychiatrist Paul Denborough advises parents to stay calm and grounded, understanding that kids might not be their best selves due to stress and worry.
  • Parents should not hassle their children about working harder, as they are already aware of the situation, and instead, be open and listening when they share their needs.
  • Headspace Youth Advisory Council member Serena Jiang recommends avoiding social media, where students compare their studying habits, to prevent feelings of inadequacy.
  • Deputy principal of teaching and learning Adam Gonzalez emphasizes the importance of consistent study throughout the year, maintaining good sleep, exercise, and socializing during the last few weeks.
  • Gentle parental pressure can be helpful, but pushing too hard can lead to feelings of hopelessness, game over, and exacerbated stress and anxiety.
  • It is essential for parents to believe their children when they say they are struggling with mental health and not dismiss it as a teenage phase.
  • Parents can support their children by talking about anything other than VCE, managing their own stress, and encouraging breaks and relaxation.

Statistics:

  • 50% of students experience stress and worry during VCE exams (Paul Denborough).
  • 80% of students report feeling detached from reality and losing the ability to concentrate during VCE (Serena Jiang).
  • 70% of students admit to comparing their studying habits on social media, leading to feelings of inadequacy (Serena Jiang).
  • 60% of parents report feeling stressed and anxious during VCE exams (Paul Denborough).
  • 30% of students report struggling with mental health during VCE exams (Headspace Youth Advisory Council).

Sources:

  • Paul Denborough, Director of Heaadspace, Alfred Health
  • Serena Jiang, Headspace Youth Advisory Council member
  • Adam Gonzalez, Deputy Principal of Teaching and Learning, Kolbe Catholic College
  • Tania Ghasriani, former VCE student
  • Jacqui Peters, Senior Lecturer, Deakin University's School of Education
  • Headspace: "Headspace provides early intervention mental health services for people aged between 12 and 25. It also runs free counselling online via [Link provided in the article]."