Supporting Mental Health in High School: Practical Tips for Managing Stress and Anxiety
High school is a stage where academic challenges meet personal growth, making mental health a top priority for student success. The transition from primary to high school is a significant milestone that brings new responsibilities, greater independence, and a variety of social changes. While some students adapt smoothly, others may find it difficult to balance schoolwork, family commitments, friendships, and their growing sense of identity â all while navigating major physical and emotional changes.
Drawing on extensive experience working with high school students, experts at Aussie Edu Hub share five essential strategies to help young people cope with stress and anxiety during this important life stage.
1. Set Realistic Expectations
Both students and parents often have high hopes for the high school experience, but when expectations donât align, it can create pressure and confusion. Focus on the present and set achievable short- to medium-term goals. This approach helps students feel more in control, bounce back from setbacks, and keep up steady effort during the early years of high school.
2. Focus on Strengths
Encourage students to use their strengths to boost self-confidence while actively seeking help in areas they find challenging. This support can be academic, social, or simply the encouragement to try new activities that build skills and broaden interests.
3. Stay Organised and Manage Time Effectively
Strong organisational and time-management skills are essential for maintaining mental wellbeing. Planning each week to include study, relaxation, and recreational activities helps create a healthy balance. Developing these habits early prepares students to handle the increased demands of Years 11 and 12.
4. Practise Regular Self-Care
Healthy routines are vital for mental health. Teens should aim for around nine hours of quality sleep each night, eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and make time for hobbies and social interaction. Limiting screen time and engaging in enjoyable activities can boost mood and overall wellbeing.
5. Take a Proactive Approach to Coping
Itâs best to address stress before it becomes overwhelming. Mindfulness exercises (such as the free Smiling Mind app), journaling, and regular self-check-ins are all helpful strategies. Talking openly with friends, family members, or professionals can ease anxiety and encourage problem-solving. Seeking support early can prevent small concerns from becoming bigger issues.
Final Thought
High school can be both rewarding and challenging. By setting realistic expectations, playing to strengths, staying organised, prioritising self-care, and taking a proactive approach to mental health, students can develop resilience that benefits them not only in school, but throughout life. At Aussie Edu Hub, we are committed to helping students navigate these years with confidence, balance, and the skills they need for long-term success.
