Middle Years

Dealing with Nervousness

With the Year 8s returning from Mittagundi last week and the Year 9s about to head off on their Vietnam Experience from this weekend, it has been noticeable that many of the Middle Years students are (and have been) feeling slightly nervous about what awaits them. While the Year 8s all dealt with the challenges of Mittagundi well, they were all slightly nervous about the unknown. 

Nervousness is a common feeling brought on by our body’s stress response, which involves a series of hormonal and physiological responses that help prepare us to handle a perceived or imagined threat. Nervousness feels like a combination of anxiety, dread, and excitement all at once. Your palms may get sweaty, your heart rate may increase, and you may feel that fluttery, nervous feeling in your stomach. Anything that causes apprehension or fear can lead to feelings of nervousness.

A key thing for our students to understand is that nervousness is a normal reaction to certain situations. Some tips for students to overcome nervousness include:

Not being afraid of nervousness

Nervousness is our body’s way of preparing us for what’s coming, which is usually something that’s outside our comfort zone. Letting go of your fear and accepting that it’s a completely natural experience can help keep your nerves in check.

Being prepared

A student can’t always predict or plan for everything that life throws their way. However, being prepared in advance can help. 

Getting into a positive headspace

Using positive self-talk or envisioning a desired outcome can work wonders.

Talk with someone

Sharing our feelings with someone we trust can help put things into perspective. Sometimes they can help us see the situation in a more rational light.

Use relaxation techniques

Learning to relax is crucial for overcoming nervousness and effectively managing stress. Deep breathing, listening to music and other distractions are helpful.

Nervousness is a perfectly natural response to a new experience or a situation that’s outside of our comfort zone. While uncomfortable, the feeling is only temporary, and you’ll feel better once the cause of your nervousness is over. Students can work to overcome their nervousness and ultimately enjoy the experiences that take them out of their comfort zone. Good luck to the Year 9s in Vietnam!