Study stress for young people is increasing, and maybe you’ve noticed this playing out for your young person. Research shows that young people struggle to balance the pressures of studying alongside other areas like work, family, health and social life.
Young people today face many challenges. Between the cost of living crisis, post-pandemic stress and overrepresentation in the casual workforce – there’s a tonne of pressure to handle. Throw a demanding study schedule on top of that, and you have a recipe for stress.
Many of these stressors are outside our control, and as a parent, it can be hard to know how to support your young adult through their academic life. So, we’ve got some practical tips, resources and support options to share with you all.
Study stress is different for everyone, and it’s worth reflecting on your young person's unique circumstances to understand better what type of support can help them get through their studies.
Causes of study stress
- the course content is challenging to grasp
- learning disabilities
- competing responsibilities outside of studies, such as work or caring duties
- mental and physical health struggles
- bullying, social exclusion or friendship difficulties
How to help
- check-in and have a conversation about what study stress means to your teen
- focus on the basics – sleeping well, eating a nutritious diet and staying hydrated will put your young person in good stead to manage their schedule.
- create a study plan that includes prioritising tasks, taking breaks and asking for help when needed.
- know the signs of study stress – disrupted sleep, stress rashes/breakouts, erratic eating habits and irritability are some things you want to look out for.
- stay curious and continue communicating about all areas of student life – coursework, social connections and mental health.
- role model healthy coping strategies and self-care – looking after your well-being is important too.
- normalise changing directions, trying something new or reducing their study workload.
Ways to support
Support options are available if you notice your teen is experiencing study stress.
- Department of Education provides information about the support options available for students. In addition, all schools, universities and TAFE will offer counselling services and learning support options.
- Find a Psychologist is a search engine that can help you find a mental health professional in your local area. You can opt to connect with therapists who specialise in education support.
- Headspace provides work and study stress services with online support and career mentoring.
- Provide your teen with study stress resources such as our collection on the topic.
- Check out our article for parents and carers "5 ways parents can help teenagers study for exams"
