Top Tips to keep cool and mindful at the end of Year 12
We're at the pointy end of the year for Year 12 students (soon to be graduates) so we've put together some top tips to keep a cool headspace.
1. Take a well-deserved break
Rest and Relaxation: You’ve worked hard all year, so take some time to rest. Binge-watch your favourite shows, read books, or go for walks.
Sleep Well: Prioritise getting quality sleep to recover from the hectic exam season.
2. Stay busy with hobbies
Reconnect with Hobbies: Whether it’s painting, playing music, or sports, doing something you love can help distract you and lift your spirits.
Try Something New: Pick up a new skill like learning a language, cooking, or trying out a new sport.
3. Work or volunteer
Part-Time Work: If you’re up for it, getting a part-time job not only keeps you occupied but helps you earn money and gain work experience.
Volunteer Work: This is a great way to give back to the community, meet new people, and feel good about contributing.
4. Plan a trip with friends or family
Day Trips: Explore local spots or go on road trips with friends or family.
Camping or Beach Days: Simple, fun, and perfect for making memories.
5. Stay Connected with Friends
Catch Up: Reach out to friends and classmates to hang out and de-stress together.
Plan Group Activities: Organise movie nights, game nights, or sports days.
6. Social media detox
Limit Social Media: Constantly checking your feed can increase anxiety, so take breaks and limit your time online.
Focus on Positivity: When you do go online, engage with content that makes you feel good.
7. Practice mindfulness and stress management
Meditation and Yoga: These can help you stay calm and reduce anxiety.
Breathing Exercises: Practicing deep breathing can help you manage moments of stress.
8. Talk about your feelings
Stay Open with Family: Share your feelings with family or close friends to ease any pressure you’re feeling.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: It’s okay to talk to a counselor or psychologist if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
9. Remind yourself: results are not everything
Keep Perspective: Final results are important but don’t define your future. There are always alternative paths to achieving your goals.
Celebrate Efforts: Be proud of the effort you put in, regardless of the outcome.
Staying balanced, enjoying your free time, and planning for the future will make the waiting period much easier and more enjoyable. Good luck!
Sometimes, you might need some help to feel better again. If you’re struggling with your mental health, support is available. The services and organisations listed below are available to help. Browse the list to find a support provider that best meets your needs, or talk to your GP or health professional.
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free, private and confidential 24/7 phone and online counselling service for young people aged 5 to 25
Headspace
Headspace is the National Youth Mental Health Foundation providing early intervention mental health services to 12-25 year olds, along with assistance in promoting young peoples’ wellbeing.
Youth Beyond Blue
Youth Beyond Blue aims to empower young people aged 12–25, their friends and those who care for them to respond to anxiety and depression. We support and promote environments and settings that build on strengths of young people and respond to ongoing change.
eheadspace
eheadspace provides online and telephone support and counselling to young people 12 – 25 and their families and friends. If you’re based in Australia and going through a tough time, eheadspace can help.
Youturn
Youturn Youth Support is a not-for-profit organisation helping young people in need under 25 years old to build better lives. Youturn support people across Southern Queensland from their main work locations in Tewantin, Maroochydore, Gympie, Caboolture, Toowoomba and Bundaberg.