What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

Stress is normal and even beneficial in small doses — but chronic stress harms health and performance

Signs of declining mental health: persistent sadness, anxiety, sleep problems, withdrawal from friends

Evidence-based strategies: exercise, sleep (8-9hrs for teens), social connection, mindfulness, professional support

Australia has free/low-cost support: Headspace (12-25yo), Beyond Blue, Lifeline (13 11 14), school counsellors

Key Vocabulary

stress

The body's response to demands or pressure — can be positive (eustress) or negative (distress)

anxiety

Excessive worry or fear about future events that feels difficult to control

mindfulness

The practice of focusing attention on the present moment without judgement

resilience

The ability to adapt and recover from adversity, stress, or challenges

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

Which is an evidence-based strategy for managing stress during Year 12?

Pulling all-nighters to study more Regular physical exercise and sufficient sleep Avoiding all social activities to focus on study Using caffeine to stay alert

Question 2

Which organisation provides free mental health support for Australians aged 12-25?

ASIO NRMA Headspace Medicare only

Question 3

Which of the following is a warning sign of declining mental health?

Feeling nervous before an exam Being tired after a long study day Occasional frustration with difficult content Persistent withdrawal from friends and activities you normally enjoy

Question 4

In Australia, if you are having a mental health crisis, you can call:

Lifeline on 13 11 14 000 only Your school teacher at home The HSC hotline

Question 5

Why is sleep especially important during Year 12?

Sleep is not important — study time matters more Sleep consolidates memory and improves cognition — insufficient sleep impairs learning More sleep = higher ATAR Sleep is only important on exam nights

Mental Health & Wellbeing in Year 12