Student Wellbeing 

Breakfast Club - Now at Wellbeing

Breakfast Club is open to all students so please join us 8am - 8:30am Tuesdays and Thursdays at Wellbeing for some free healthy food to start your day!

Anxiety 101

As humans, we often face numerous challenges and responsibilities that can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety. While it's normal to experience occasional worry and nervousness, persistent and overwhelming anxiety can be detrimental to our overall wellbeing. It's crucial to recognize the symptoms of anxiety and learn effective coping strategies to navigate through these difficult emotions. So, let's delve into what anxiety is, its symptoms, and how to cope with it.

Anxiety can be described as an intense and persistent fear or worry about future events or situations. It goes beyond the usual nervousness before a big test or a social gathering. Here are some common symptoms of anxiety that you may experience:

Physical Symptoms: Anxiety can manifest in physical ways, such as increased heart rate, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, headaches, or stomach aches. These physical sensations may be alarming, but they are often a result of your body's natural stress response.

Emotional Symptoms: Anxiety can also affect your emotions, leading to feelings of restlessness, irritability, or being on edge. You may find it challenging to concentrate or experience sudden waves of fear or panic. Sometimes, you might even have trouble falling asleep or experience vivid nightmares.

Behavioural Symptoms: Anxiety can influence your behaviour, causing you to avoid certain situations or activities that trigger your anxiety. You may find yourself isolating from friends or family, procrastinating on tasks, or seeking constant reassurance from others.

Coping with Anxiety

Here are some useful techniques:

Practice Deep Breathing and Relaxation Techniques: This can help calm your nervous system during moments of anxiety. Try inhaling slowly through your nose, holding it for a few seconds, and exhaling through your mouth. Engaging in relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga can also provide a sense of calm and balance. Click here to see a popular relaxation technique called “Box Breathing”.

Challenge Negative Thoughts: Anxiety often stems from negative thoughts or irrational fears. When you notice yourself spiralling into negative thinking, pause and question the validity of those thoughts. Are they based on facts or just assumptions? Try replacing negative thoughts with positive affirmations and realistic perspectives.

Build a Support System: Talking to someone you trust about your anxiety can be immensely helpful. Whether it's a close friend, family member, or school counsellor, sharing your feelings can provide support and offer new perspectives. Surround yourself with people who understand and encourage your well-being.

Engage in Physical Activity: Regular exercise is not only beneficial for your physical health but also for your mental well-being. Engaging in activities like jogging, dancing, or playing a sport can release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity each day.

Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is essential when managing anxiety. Ensure you're getting enough sleep, eating balanced meals, and maintaining a consistent routine. Make time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or pursuing hobbies. Prioritizing self-care can help reduce anxiety levels.

Seek Professional Help: If anxiety significantly interferes with your daily life and persists for an extended period, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. You can find out more about this here. They can provide guidance, support, and teach you effective strategies tailored to your specific needs.

Remember, anxiety is a common experience, and you are not alone in this journey. By recognizing the symptoms and implementing coping strategies, you can better manage your anxiety and lead a healthier, more balanced life. Be patient with yourself and practice self-compassion as you navigate through the challenges that come your way.

Youth Support services 

headspace: visit headspace.org.au to find your nearest centre or call headspace on 

1800 650 890.

Kids Helpline: 

1800 55 1800 or kidshelpline.com.au 

ReachOut: reachout.com.au 

SANE Australia: 1800 187 263 or sane.org

National 24/7 crisis services 

Lifeline:13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au 

Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 or suicidecallbackservice.org.au 

beyondblue: 

1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au

Student Wellbeing Team

Email: wellbeing@wantirnacollege.vic.edu.au

Guiseppe Relia – Wellbeing Coordinator 

Talea-Jane Simpson – School Counsellor

Lea Marrison - Mental Health Practitioner

Tajinder Wulff - Mental Health Practitioner