by Tania Wells, BHSc Nat, DH, DRM
Healthy Life Erina
Through first-hand experience with the pressures of the HSC and University exams with my own children and friends, as well as seeing numerous students and parents at my clinic, I know all too well how students may struggle with stress, anxiety or depression at this time of year.
If it’s exam time for someone in your household, increased empathy and support from you and the rest of the family can help protect your hard-working student from being overwhelmed by stress.
Know the signs
Girls tend to be more open and talk about issues or have outbursts whereas boys may simply withdraw. Try to be there to listen when they’re in the mood to talk, or occasionally nudge them to open up.
Be alert for any significant changes in your child. Constant fidgeting, inability to concentrate or relax, mood swings, insomnia or finding it hard to get out of bed in the morning are all signs that stress is building up. More physical symptoms of stress include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, digestive problems, weight loss or gain, missed periods and break outs around the chin and jaw area. Relying on ‘adrenaline hits’ such as chocolate, lollies, low GI carbs or caffeine to boost energy are also an indication that all’s not well.
There’s a distinct difference between normal anxiety or stress and depression. If you’re concerned that what your child is experiencing is more than an understandable reaction to a stressful time of life encourage them to see your GP.
Help them get organised
Cramming at the last minute works for a few but not all. The key to effective time management is to set out an achievable study plan. Allow for some ‘free’ slots that can be used to catch up when study time is disrupted, they’re too tired or find topics that need extra review. It’s also a good idea to include group sessions with peers, a teacher or tutor.
To avoid boredom, encourage them to find a few places they like to study – maybe the library or a quiet table at local café – as well as the usual desk in their bedroom.
Nourishment for increased energy and focus
Balance mind and body energy levels by providing small meals every 3 to 4 hours. Include low GI carbs and high protein foods to avoid blood sugar highs and lows. Limit energy drinks, caffeine and processed sugar-filled treats as these give only a short energy boost. As always, avoid additives as much as possible.
Sumber: http://www.healthylife.net.au/
Healthy Life Erina
Through first-hand experience with the pressures of the HSC and University exams with my own children and friends, as well as seeing numerous students and parents at my clinic, I know all too well how students may struggle with stress, anxiety or depression at this time of year.
If it’s exam time for someone in your household, increased empathy and support from you and the rest of the family can help protect your hard-working student from being overwhelmed by stress.
Know the signs
Girls tend to be more open and talk about issues or have outbursts whereas boys may simply withdraw. Try to be there to listen when they’re in the mood to talk, or occasionally nudge them to open up.
Be alert for any significant changes in your child. Constant fidgeting, inability to concentrate or relax, mood swings, insomnia or finding it hard to get out of bed in the morning are all signs that stress is building up. More physical symptoms of stress include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, digestive problems, weight loss or gain, missed periods and break outs around the chin and jaw area. Relying on ‘adrenaline hits’ such as chocolate, lollies, low GI carbs or caffeine to boost energy are also an indication that all’s not well.
There’s a distinct difference between normal anxiety or stress and depression. If you’re concerned that what your child is experiencing is more than an understandable reaction to a stressful time of life encourage them to see your GP.
Help them get organised
Cramming at the last minute works for a few but not all. The key to effective time management is to set out an achievable study plan. Allow for some ‘free’ slots that can be used to catch up when study time is disrupted, they’re too tired or find topics that need extra review. It’s also a good idea to include group sessions with peers, a teacher or tutor.
To avoid boredom, encourage them to find a few places they like to study – maybe the library or a quiet table at local café – as well as the usual desk in their bedroom.
Nourishment for increased energy and focus
Balance mind and body energy levels by providing small meals every 3 to 4 hours. Include low GI carbs and high protein foods to avoid blood sugar highs and lows. Limit energy drinks, caffeine and processed sugar-filled treats as these give only a short energy boost. As always, avoid additives as much as possible.
Sumber: http://www.healthylife.net.au/
