Deputy Principal 

Finding Balance: Self-Care Strategies for Busy Students

With our examinations looming, winter sports competitions in full swing, and social commitments filling the calendars, it's no wonder that Year 7 to 12 students report feeling overwhelmed on a regular basis. 

I was speaking to one of Year 12 students only last week who told me, "I used to think being stressed was just part of being a good student "It took a minor health scare to realise that success shouldn't come at the expense of my mental health."

Psychologist Dr Rivera explains that when temporary stress becomes chronic, it affects everything from sleep quality to immune function. "The adolescent brain is particularly sensitive to stress. Many students don't realise that taking breaks improves cognitive performance rather than detracting from it."

Research consistently shows that mental well-being directly impacts academic performance. Students who practice regular self-care typically show better focus, improved memory retention, and higher examination scores than those who regularly sacrifice sleep and downtime for extra study hours.

You don't need to completely overhaul your life to see benefits. Consider these practical strategies that fellow students have found helpful:

The 5-Minute Reset: When feeling overwhelmed between classes, try the 4-7-8 breathing technique: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Even this brief pause can lower your heart rate and clear your mind.

Digital Boundaries: Set your phone to 'Do Not Disturb' after 9pm. Constant notifications can create low level anxiety.

Movement Matters:  Even 20 minutes a day just walking can make a difference. 

Finding Your Support System

Perhaps most importantly, wellbeing isn't something we achieve alone. Creating a support network—whether that's friends who respect your boundaries, family members who understand your needs, your mentor or teacher who can provide guidance—is essential. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness! 

A Culture Shift

What if self-care became as routine as homework?

Your wellbeing isn't just important for some distant future—it matters right now. As we begin a very busy period in our school term remember that taking care of yourself isn't selfish; it's essential for sustainable success and genuine happiness.